French Climber Alain Robert Gets Takedown After Heron Tower Hijinks
The Hilarious High‑Rise Heist
Alain Robert, aka the “French Spider‑Man,” scaled London’s most eye‑catching building—Heron Tower, a 46‑storey, 230‑metre skyscraper—without a single rope or safety harness. He did it in roughly an hour, leaving traffic in a stand‑still jam and crowds gawking like they’d found a secret theme park.
Public Nuisance Arrest
Police in the City of London were quick to mop up the chaos. “He caused a public nuisance,” officers said, and the 56‑year‑old was booked until the afternoon. “It’s what I love to do,” Robert chuckled to reporters before the climb. “Mountains, cliffs, and buildings—always free soloing, no safety gear.”
Record‑Holder, No Reins
- Over 100 structures tackled worldwide.
- Guinness world record for “most buildings climbed unassisted.”
- In Seoul, he abandoned the 123‑storey king of towers after security caught him halfway.
“I Was Nervous…but I Usually Stay Focused”
Robert admitted, “I’m pretty nervous, and it’s a bit shaky.” He kept a tiny camera on his forehead, proud as ever, while treating the tower like a personal playground.
Police Chaos
Within minutes police cordoned off roads, causing traffic to bowl, leaving local workers like John Doherty (36, finance) stunned, saying, “It’s weird—this is my office.”
Never‑Ending Arrests
Last time? He always expected to be caught. “They always arrest me,” he said. The English do it since ’95, but post‑9/11 the drama got bigger.
London’s Skyscraper Sentries
Manager Bryan Yeubrey explained that Robert had chosen the skyscraper from a shortlist that also included the 224‑metre Leadenhall (the “cheesegrater”) and the 38‑story “Walkie‑Talkie.”
City Police’s Side‑Eye
“The stunt caused massive disruption to daily business and posed a significant risk to safety,” City of London Police’s Commander Karen Baxter warned, plus caution about potential future climbs.
So What Do We Take Away?
When the world’s most daring French free‑climber jumps over your morning commute, the street‑smart public will stop mid‑drive, and the city police will keep him under lock. The result? An unexpected parade of people, a safe‑guarded skyline, and a tale that earns a shoulder‑tap from the living legend.
