Alex Honnold’s Taipei 101 Climb: When and How to Watch the Netflix ‘Skyscraper Live’ Event

When will Alex Honnold’s dangerous Taipei 101 climb stream live on Netflix?

Alex Honnold’s Taipei 101 Climb: When and How to Watch the Netflix ‘Skyscraper Live’ Event

Get ready for one of the most heart-stopping live events of the year. The legendary rock climber Alex Honnold—famous for his death-defying free solo ascents—is set to scale the iconic Taipei 101 without ropes in a live global broadcast titled Skyscraper Live. Originally postponed due to adverse weather in Taiwan, the much-anticipated Alex Honnold Taipei 101 climb is now confirmed for Saturday, January 24, 2026, at 8 p.m. ET—exclusively on Netflix .

This isn’t just another stunt. It’s a historic moment in extreme sports, blending athleticism, architecture, and raw human courage. And if you’re wondering how to watch it, whether it’s truly ropeless, or why Taipei 101 was chosen—this guide has you covered.

Table of Contents

When Is the Alex Honnold Taipei 101 Climb?

Mark your calendars: the Alex Honnold Taipei 101 climb will stream live on Saturday, January 24, 2026, at 8 p.m. Eastern Time (ET) . That’s:

  • 5 p.m. PT (Pacific Time)
  • 1 a.m. GMT (Sunday, January 25)
  • 9 a.m. Taipei time (Sunday, January 25)

The event was initially scheduled earlier in the week but was delayed due to high winds and rain in Taipei—a prudent decision given the zero-margin-for-error nature of Honnold’s climbs. Safety, even in spectacle, remains paramount.

What Is ‘Skyscraper Live’ on Netflix?

Skyscraper Live is a special live-streamed event produced by Netflix in collaboration with Honnold’s team and local authorities. Unlike pre-recorded documentaries like the Oscar-winning Free Solo, this is a real-time broadcast—meaning anything can happen. Viewers will witness every grip, every pause, and every breathtaking moment as it unfolds.

The production includes multiple camera angles—drones, ground crews, and even body-mounted cams—to capture the full intensity of the ascent. Commentary will be provided by climbing experts and possibly Honnold’s longtime partner, Sanni McCandless, offering emotional and technical context throughout.

Why Taipei 101? A Symbolic and Technical Challenge

At 508 meters (1,667 feet), Taipei 101 was the world’s tallest building from 2004 to 2010 and remains one of the most recognizable skyscrapers in Asia. Its design—inspired by bamboo stalks and traditional Chinese pagodas—offers both aesthetic grandeur and unique climbing challenges.

Unlike natural rock faces, glass-and-steel towers present different risks: smooth surfaces, wind tunnels between floors, and minimal handholds. Honnold has reportedly spent months studying the building’s facade, identifying tiny ledges, window frames, and structural seams he can use. According to architectural analyses, the climb will focus on the building’s eastern spine—a section with slightly more texture and anchor points .

Is This a True Free Solo Climb?

Technically, no—but it’s as close as urban climbing gets. While Honnold won’t be using ropes for safety during the live ascent, reports confirm that a safety team will be on standby with emergency protocols, including rapid-response rappellers and airbags at key drop zones .

Purists may debate the label, but in the context of urban environments, this is considered a “ropeless” or “free ascent” rather than a pure free solo like El Capitan. Still, the margin for error is razor-thin. One slip could be fatal.

How to Watch the Live Event on Netflix

Good news: if you have a Netflix subscription, you’re all set. The Alex Honnold Taipei 101 climb will stream live only on Netflix—no cable, no extra fees.

Here’s how to tune in:

  1. Open the Netflix app on your smart TV, phone, tablet, or computer.
  2. Search for “Skyscraper Live” or look under the “Live Events” banner.
  3. Start watching at 8 p.m. ET on January 24.
  4. Enable notifications so you don’t miss the start!

Note: The event will be available globally, but check your local Netflix homepage for exact timing in your time zone.

The Risks and Preparations Behind the Ascent

Honnold is no stranger to risk, but this climb presents unique dangers:

  • Wind shear: At over 400 meters, gusts can exceed 50 mph.
  • Surface temperature: Glass can become slick from humidity or cold.
  • Psychological pressure: Performing live, with millions watching, adds mental strain beyond physical challenge.

To prepare, Honnold has trained extensively on replica sections of Taipei 101’s facade in California. He’s also worked with meteorologists to pinpoint the safest weather window—which finally arrived this weekend .

As the National Geographic notes, Honnold’s ability to manage fear through meticulous preparation is what separates him from other climbers .

Conclusion: Don’t Miss History in the Making

The Alex Honnold Taipei 101 climb isn’t just entertainment—it’s a testament to human potential, discipline, and the relentless pursuit of the impossible. Whether you’re a climbing enthusiast, a Netflix binge-watcher, or just someone who appreciates extraordinary feats, this live event promises to be unforgettable.

So clear your schedule for Saturday night. Grab a seat. And hold your breath as one man defies gravity on one of the planet’s tallest buildings—all without a rope.

Sources

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