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A daring couple who recently climbed to the top of the Empire State Building’s antenna to celebrate their love now face multiple felony charges for their risky stunt, which prosecutors have labeled “reckless.”
The pair, known as Angela Nikolau and Ivan Beerkus, kept their remarks brief as they left court. When asked about their dramatic climb, Beerkus simply replied, “We believe in love.”
Authorities reported that the duo, featured in the 2024 Netflix documentary Skywalkers: A Love Story – which chronicles their “rooftopping” adventures and blossoming romance – not only caused a spectacle but also posed significant danger by ascending the iconic skyscraper’s broadcast antenna on Wednesday.
After reaching the dizzying height of 1,454 feet (443 meters) above midtown Manhattan, the couple unfurled a black banner that read: “When the power of love beats the love of power the world knows peace,” as captured by news helicopter footage. They then moved to a slightly lower ledge where Beerkus proposed marriage. Nikolau shared images of the moment on social media, including a striking photo showcasing her engagement ring against a breathtaking bird’s-eye view of Manhattan.
Police waited approximately 30 minutes for the antenna to be powered down before Emergency Services Unit officers ascended to intercept the climbers on their way down. The complaint highlights the peril faced by officers who climbed about 1,250 feet (381 meters) above ground. Official court documents identified the pair by their full names: Angelina Nikolau and Ivan Kuznetsov.
The documentary Skywalkers: A Love Story follows the couple, now in their early 30s, as they frequently scale tall structures without permission, sometimes disguising themselves as construction workers to gain access.
Investigators found a broken lock on a security door on the Empire State Building’s restricted 104th floor, which provides access to the antenna. The highest public floor is the 102nd, home to the observation deck, and access beyond requires a key card, according to the court filing.
The Empire State Building’s management confirmed the climb was unauthorized but declined to comment on any interactions the climbers may have had with security personnel. Visitors to the landmark are carefully screened and prohibited from bringing large packages, sports equipment, costumes, or masks.
Following their arrest, Beerkus and Nikolau were released without bail, in line with New York’s bail laws. Their attorney, Jason Krinsky, told reporters that once the prosecution presents evidence, they will review it and determine their next steps.
Krinsky remarked, “What a way to propose – something you can only dream of. So you’ve got to, you know, give him some credit for that.”
While unauthorized climbs of the Empire State Building’s antenna and other areas have occurred before, most have been without permission. However, actor and musician Jared Leto was granted access up to the antenna base from the 86th floor in 2023 for a tour promotion.