Empire State Building antenna stunt climbers talked about quitting

The Stunt That Captivated New York

Empire State Building antenna stunt climbers - On July 1, 2026, Ivan Beerkus and Angela Nikolau made headlines by ascending the Empire State Building’s 1,454-foot-tall antenna without ropes or safety gear. The Russian daredevils, celebrated for their extreme feats, reached the summit to unveil a message: "When the power of love beats the love of power, the world knows peace." The moment was not only a physical achievement but also a personal milestone, as Beerkus proposed to Nikolau during the climb. The spectacle drew crowds and prompted police to close surrounding streets for safety. Yet, for the couple, the act was routine—a testament to their commitment to the sport of "rooftopping."

A Love Story Written in the Sky

Beerkus and Nikolau’s journey began long before their viral ascent. Their partnership, forged through shared risks and a mutual passion for defying gravity, is central to their upcoming Netflix documentary, "Skywalkers: A Love Story." The film chronicles their relationship, which blossomed during early climbs, and their 2022 mission to scale Merdeka 118, a towering 2,227-foot structure in Kuala Lumpur. Ahead of the documentary’s release, they spoke with USA TODAY about how rooftopping became more than a hobby—it shaped their identities and deepened their bond.

"It’s not just about the thrill," Beerkus said. "It’s about the challenge. I used to be scared of heights like most people, but I wanted to push beyond that fear." Nikolau, whose background as a gymnast and daughter of circus performers gave her an innate sense of balance, echoed this sentiment. "Rooftopping is a blend of performance and courage," she explained. "My family always taught me to stay strong, even when the world feels unstable. My grandmother’s words, 'Every woman in our bloodline is strong,' stuck with me. It’s part of who I am."

Despite their growing fame, the couple emphasized that their daring pursuits remain driven by personal ambition. "We don’t see ourselves as just adventurers," Beerkus noted. "We’re artists, trying to capture moments that feel alive and real. Every climb is a story, and we want to share it with the world." Nikolau added that the sport’s unpredictability is its charm. "You can’t plan every move. That’s what makes it exciting. It’s not about perfection—it’s about connection with the moment."

The Artists Behind the Adrenaline

The duo’s approach to rooftopping is as much about creativity as it is about risk. "We’re always looking for unusual roofs that offer unique perspectives," Beerkus said. "It’s not just about reaching the top; it’s about how the view looks when you do." Nikolau, who admitted to experiencing "panic attacks on unstable buildings," shared that they’ve adjusted their strategies. "We avoid climbing on cranes now because they’re too predictable," she laughed. "But the thrill of the unknown? That’s what keeps us coming back."

Their latest venture, the Empire State Building stunt, was a calculated move. "We wanted to create something that would resonate emotionally," Nikolau said. "The message was a reflection of our values—love as a force that can overcome even the strongest powers." Beerkus agreed, noting that the climb was a way to express their relationship. "We’re not just climbing buildings; we’re building something together. Every challenge we face is a step toward understanding each other better."

The Risks That Define Their Passion

While their feats are celebrated, they also face legal consequences. Charges of reckless endangerment, criminal mischief, and burglary have been filed, but the couple views these as a small price for their craft. "We’re aware of the dangers," Beerkus said. "But the alternative is living a life that feels dull and unfulfilled." Nikolau shared a personal story that reinforces their mindset. "My cousin died at 18 from an embolism. That taught me to live life to the fullest. If I can’t live with intensity, what’s the point?"

Both climbers admit the possibility of death is a constant companion. "You have to accept that you’re always one step away from the edge," Beerkus said. "But that’s what makes it worth it. The risk is the reward." Nikolau expanded on this philosophy, comparing rooftopping to other high-risk sports. "If you’re afraid of dying, you’ll never truly live," she said. "Gymnastics, skiing, skydiving—they all have their dangers. The difference is in how you choose to face them."

The Bond Forged by Extreme Adventures

Beerkus and Nikolau’s partnership is built on trust and shared sacrifice. "Climbing Merdeka 118 made our relationship stronger," Beerkus reflected. "We had to rely on each other completely. The night before the climb, we told each other everything—our fears, our doubts, our hopes. That honesty solidified our connection in a way no other experience could." Nikolau added that their uniqueness as a couple is a key part of their success. "We’re an unusual pair," she said. "But that’s what makes us special. We complement each other’s strengths and balance each other’s weaknesses."

Despite their shared risks, they acknowledge the normalcy of everyday life. "We have the same arguments as any couple," Beerkus admitted. "But watching our journey on screen reminded us that we have to choose each other every day. It’s not about the heights or the grand gestures—it’s about how we treat each other in the quiet moments." Nikolau teased about the possibility of having children, referencing her circus roots. "I come from a family of high-energy performers. If we have kids, they’ll probably grow up chasing their own dreams. But that’s okay. We’ll be there to guide them, even if we’re still on the edge of the world."

As they prepare for the future, the couple remains undeterred by the challenges ahead. "We’ve always been drawn to new opportunities," Nikolau said. "Even after Merdeka 118, we couldn’t resist the call of another roof. It’s in our blood." Beerkus added that their goal is to keep inspiring others. "Our message to kids is simple: decide what you want and follow through. The risks are real, but so are the rewards. If you’re afraid to take a leap, you’ll never know what you’re capable of."

"Live long and smolder like a coal, or burn bright like a fire? I want to burn bright," Nikolau said.

Their journey, captured in "Skywalkers: A Love Story," serves as a reminder that passion and danger are often intertwined. For Beerkus and Nikolau, the Empire State Building’s antenna is not just a physical feat—it’s a symbol of their relentless pursuit of meaning. "We’re not just climbing buildings," Beerkus concluded. "We’re climbing toward a life that feels authentic. And if that means facing the world without safety nets, so be it."