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Alex Honnold Becomes First to Free‑Solo Taipei 101 in Live Netflix Ascent

Official approval plus a broadcast delay framed the climb as a global showcase for Taiwan.

Overview

  • Honnold reached the 508‑meter summit in just over 90 minutes after a 24‑hour postponement for rain, then descended by elevator.
  • Netflix aired the climb live with a 10‑second delay and contingency measures to manage worst‑case scenarios.
  • Taipei authorities and Taipei 101 management granted permission and coordinated on‑site planning as a large global audience and street‑level crowds watched.
  • The ascent was the first rope‑free summit of Taipei 101, whereas Alain Robert’s 2004 climb used safety gear and took about four hours.
  • President Lai Ching‑te and Vice President Hsiao Bi‑khim praised the achievement, while debate focused on televising extreme risk and reports of a mid‑six‑figure fee Honnold called secondary to the spectacle.