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Netflix's Death Watch: Honnold's Free Solo Fear
29 Jan
Summary
- Netflix prepared a script for Alex Honnold's potential death during his climb.
- The stream was on a 10-second delay to cut away in case of disaster.
- Host Elle Duncan received a note on what to say if Honnold fell.
During Alex Honnold's unprecedented free solo climb of Taipei 101, Netflix prepared for a potential fatality.
Host Elle Duncan disclosed that the streaming service handed her a card outlining her on-air statement should Honnold fall to his death.
To manage the extreme risk, Netflix implemented a 10-second delay for the broadcast. This measure allowed them to cut away from the live feed in the event of a disaster.
Duncan shared that the contingency plan involved switching to a wide shot to avoid showing any fall, followed by her announcement of the tragedy before going off-air.
She admitted to being highly anxious during the broadcast, which she felt impacted her hosting. Despite the pressure, Duncan ultimately conveyed Honnold's message about embracing life's challenges.
Honnold's climb was a unique event, with no prior blueprint for broadcasting such a high-stakes solo ascent.
