A daredevil couple scaled the Empire State Building’s antenna to make a statement about love and peace, prosecutors revealed during their arraignment on various charges including felony reckless endangerment and burglary. The duo, identified as Angelina Nikolau and Ivan Kuznetsov, explained that the stunt was meant to be a special gesture for their engagement.
As they left court, Ivan Kuznetsov briefly spoke to journalists, expressing their belief in love. Nikolau and Kuznetsov were known for their daring rooftop escapades, featured in the 2024 Netflix documentary, “Skywalkers: A Love Story,” which chronicled their unauthorized climbs and relationship. On Wednesday, the pair ascended the Empire State Building’s broadcast antenna, raising a black banner stating, “When the power of love beats the love of power the world knows peace,” before collecting it and descending for a marriage proposal.
Images of the event, including a ring above a view of Manhattan, were shared by Nikolau on social media. The climbers were intercepted by police officers after a half-hour wait for the antenna to be powered down. Officers climbed approximately 1,250 feet to reach them. A broken lock on a security door leading to the restricted-access antenna was found, allowing the couple to go beyond the public observation deck on the 102nd floor.
Management at the Empire State Building labeled the climb as unauthorized, but details regarding any interactions with security personnel remain undisclosed. Visitors to the site undergo screening and are warned against bringing large items, sports gear, and costumes.
Released without bail, Nikolau and Kuznetsov will evaluate the evidence provided by prosecutors before deciding their next actions, according to their attorney Jason Krinsky. Praising the proposal, Krinsky remarked on its memorable nature.
Previous daredevils also attempted unauthorized climbs on the famous skyscraper. In contrast, Jared Leto was officially permitted to climb up to the antenna’s base for promotional purposes in 2023.