The climb, which is set to stream live on Netflix, will now take place on Saturday night in the US, with the attempt occurring on Sunday local time in Taiwan. Netflix explained that this decision was made after rain affected the area surrounding the tower.
“Safety is our highest priority, and we thank you for your understanding,” the company stated in a brief announcement.
Due to the weather, we are unable to proceed with today’s #SkyscraperLIVE event.
It has been rescheduled for Saturday, January 24 at 8 PM ET | 5 PM PT. Safety remains our top priority, and we appreciate your understanding. pic.twitter.com/FtNvSug48y— Netflix (@netflix) January 24, 2026
Overview of the Taipei 101 climb
The event was marketed as a one-night live special. Honnold was set to attempt a free solo climb of Taipei 101, a 1,667-foot skyscraper that previously held the title of the tallest building in the world.
.@AlexHonnold is one of the greatest climbers the world has ever seen. Tonight, he takes on a lifelong dream, free soloing one of the tallest buildings in the world: Taipei 101.
His three-stage route will present challenges & dangers unlike any he has faced before ???? #SkyscraperLIVE pic.twitter.com/D7KtuWcp9Q— Netflix Sports (@netflixsports) January 23, 2026
The route consists of three stages, each with distinct risks. Unlike natural rock formations, the building features smooth surfaces, exposed sections, and few natural grip points. No ropes. No safety harness.
Reasons for the delay
Rain fell over Taipei on Friday, rendering the exterior of the building unsafe for climbing. Honnold later confirmed the delay via a post on X, stating that the weather conditions made climbing impossible that day. He expressed hope for improved conditions, noting that the climb will be attempted at the same time the following night.
Sadly, it’s raining in Taipei right now so I won’t be going climbing today. However, I’m really touched by all the support and well wishes from everyone – hopefully, the weather will clear, and I’ll get a shot at climbing the beautiful Taipei 101. Fingers crossed! Same time tomorrow… pic.twitter.com/vFZGjItM1r
— Alex Honnold (@AlexHonnold) January 24, 2026
The live stream has been rescheduled for 8 p.m. ET on Saturday, as per Netflix’s update.
About Alex Honnold
Honnold, 40, is considered one of the most skilled climbers globally. He gained international fame in 2017 after becoming the first individual to free solo El Capitan in Yosemite National Park – a feat completed without any ropes or protective equipment.
This ascent was captured in the 2018 film Free Solo, which won an Academy Award.
Since then, Honnold has taken on fewer but more meticulously planned projects, often aligned with long-term objectives over mere speed or spectacle.
Rescheduled date and time for Netflix live broadcast
If weather conditions improve, the Taipei 101 climb will proceed as planned this weekend. Netflix has not announced any further modifications.
For now, the attempt is on hold, not canceled, as everyone awaits clear skies.
(Edited by : Sudarsanan Mani)
First Published: Jan 24, 2026 12:34 PM IST