Renowned rock climber Alex Honnold achieved a remarkable feat on March 3, 2024, by completing a ropeless ascent of Taipei 101, now recognized as the world’s tallest urban free solo climb. The event, broadcast globally as part of Netflix’s Skyscraper Live, captivated thousands of viewers both in-person and online.
During a post-climb press conference, Honnold expressed uncertainty about the specific messages viewers might derive from his extraordinary achievement. “Honestly, I don’t really know,” he stated when asked by commentator Elle Duncan about the impact of his climb. Reflecting on his previous experience with the Oscar-winning documentary Free Solo, he noted that audiences often interpret his feats in ways that resonate personally with them.
“People often find the inspiration that they need to pursue their own challenges,” Honnold explained. He emphasized that while he does not expect everyone to take up free soloing, he hopes viewers recognize the importance of making the most of their limited time. “If anything, I hope that’s what people take from it — that if you work really hard, you can do hard things,” he added.
Honnold’s wife, Sanni McCandless, who was present at the event, highlighted the joy her husband experiences during such climbs. “What people don’t understand until they get to watch him is how much fun he’s having,” she stated. McCandless described her husband’s approach to climbing as reminiscent of “childlike joy,” emphasizing the excitement he feels when tackling these challenges.
The ascent of Taipei 101, which stands at 1,667 feet, took Honnold just over an hour and a half. Crowds gathered around the building’s base, while others watched from the windows of the skyscraper, cheering as he climbed. The journey was divided into three sections: a warming lower stretch, a middle segment with challenging platforms, and a final exposed section leading to the spire, which features a narrow platform barely large enough for one person.
As he climbed higher, Honnold encountered increasingly difficult conditions, including strong winds that swirled around the building. He humorously mentioned feeling “kind of tired” before continuing his ascent, showcasing his calm demeanor under pressure. Upon reaching the summit, he celebrated by waving to the crowd and taking a selfie, exclaiming “siiiick” as he absorbed the breathtaking view.
The live broadcast combined aerial footage from drones and helicopters with ground-level cameras, creating an immersive viewing experience for audiences worldwide. A delay was included for safety, and viewers were cautioned against attempting similar climbs. This event marked a significant moment for Honnold, as it was his first time free soloing in front of such a large audience.
Reflecting on the atmosphere during the climb, Honnold appreciated the energy from the crowd, stating, “It felt more like a celebration than I expected.” His excitement was palpable, highlighting the unique blend of thrill and joy that defines his approach to climbing.
