Renowned free solo climber Alex Honnold made history by successfully scaling the Taipei 101 skyscraper, one of the tallest buildings in the world, without ropes, in a breathtaking live event titled "Skyscraper Live" on January 25, 2026.
The climb, which took approximately 90 minutes, attracted a staggering 6.2 million viewers, showcasing the thrill and danger of extreme sports as millions watched him tackle the 1,667-foot ascent.
Prior to the climb, concerns over weather conditions prompted a 24-hour postponement, emphasizing the unpredictable nature of high-risk endeavors and the meticulous planning behind the event.
Despite the success of his daring feat, Honnold revealed he received less than $1 million for the climb, labeling the payment as "embarrassing," and indicating he would have done it for free, raising questions about remuneration for extreme athletes.
The event sparked discussions about the ethics of live broadcasting perilous stunts, with critics highlighting the tension between the excitement of the climb and the inherent risks of such dangerous live entertainment.
During his ascent, Honnold paused to check in with his wife, Sanni, who was watching from a floor above, adding a personal touch to the high-stakes spectacle and illustrating the emotional connections intertwined with extreme challenges.
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