Netflix’s high‑stakes live special Skyscraper Live, featuring world‑renowned climber Alex Honnold attempting to free solo the 1,667‑foot Taipei 101 skyscraper, was set to air last night—but the event was abruptly postponed due to rain and unsafe climbing conditions in Taiwan.
Why Was It Postponed?
Just minutes before the broadcast was scheduled to begin, steady rainfall in Taipei made the exterior of Taipei 101 too slick for Honnold to safely attempt the climb. Netflix confirmed the decision was made entirely for safety reasons, citing wet conditions and moisture on the building’s glass façade.
The streamer announced: “Due to weather, we are unable to proceed with today’s SkyscraperLIVE event. Safety remains our top priority.”
Honnold himself updated fans, writing on X that rain had forced the delay: “Sadly, it’s raining in Taipei right now, so I don’t get to go climbing today… fingers crossed!”
When Will It Air Now?
The climb has been officially rescheduled for Saturday, January 24, at 8 p.m. ET on Netflix and Netflix Sports—exactly 24 hours after the original broadcast window.
In Taiwan, where Honnold will actually climb on Sunday morning local time, conditions are expected to improve, giving him another opportunity to attempt the unprecedented ropeless ascent.
Netflix has also built a short broadcast delay into the live production as an added safety measure for viewers.
What To Know
The two‑hour live special marks Netflix’s latest foray into global live events. Honnold—best known for his Oscar‑winning Free Solo ascent of El Capitan—plans to climb Taipei 101 without ropes, harnesses, or a safety net.
The skyscraper’s smooth surfaces, balconies, and sheer verticality pose a set of challenges unlike the rock faces he’s famous for conquering.
Weather permitting, tonight’s rescheduled broadcast will capture one of the most daring urban climbing attempts ever attempted.
What People Are Saying
Posting a short video update on X, Honnold said: “Hey, this is Alex from a very rainy Taipei. I sadly will not get to climb the building today because it is raining.
“I suppose climbing is always at the mercy of nature. That is just how it goes. It is a beautiful city. I’m gonna go for a hike, have a nice day out. But sadly can’t climb the skyscraper when it is raining.”
He added: “Hopefully, I get the opportunity to climb the building tomorrow, at the same time. I really appreciate the support from everybody. It has been incredible being here and checking out the building.”
Queenie Chang, a Taiwanese fan of Honnold, told the Associated Press: “His safety comes first, and I’ll still come back tomorrow.”
Netflix said: “Safety remains our top priority, and we appreciate your understanding.”
What Happens Next
The live broadcast is expected to air Saturday, January 24, at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT in the United States, with the climb planned for Sunday morning local time if conditions improve.
Production executives said they would evaluate conditions and, if necessary, could delay beyond one day, though the immediate plan targeted a 24-hour shift consistent with weather forecasts showing better conditions.
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