A couple whose rooftop exploits were featured in the 2024 Netflix documentary Skywalkers: A Love Story climbed the Empire State Building spire on Wednesday and unfurled a peace banner over Manhattan.
Angela Nikolau, 33, and Ivan “Vanya” Beerkus, 32, scaled the upper section of the skyscraper’s antenna, reaching about 1,454 feet above Midtown Manhattan. Wearing black sleeveless tops, they stood beside the building’s red aviation warning light while holding a black banner with white lettering. After descending, Beerkus proposed to Nikolau, and the pair was later arrested.
The banner read: “When the power of love beats the love of power the world knows peace.”
Couple unfurls peace banner above Manhattan
The climb took place far above the Empire State Building’s public observation areas, turning one of New York City’s most famous landmarks into the backdrop for a dramatic public display. Nikolau and Beerkus remained at the very top of the structure for about half an hour. It was a call for global peace from one of the most visible points in Manhattan with a banner containing a humanitarian message.
The Empire State Building is among the world’s most renowned skyscrapers and one of New York’s defining symbols. However, access to the upper sections of its antenna is restricted, making the climb both dangerous and unauthorized.
Empire State Building climb ends with couple’s engagement
After descending from the top of the building’s antenna, Beerkus got down on one knee and proposed to Nikolau, adding a personal twist to a public spectacle.
Nikolau later shared an image of her engagement ring on social media. The couple is known for extreme rooftop climbs and high-risk urban stunts, often involving skyscrapers and major landmarks. Nikolau and Beerkus were taken into custody after they were returned to ground level.
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