Zhang Kai fell from a height of 16ft while he was suspended from a crane earlier this week – he has since been transported to a hospital where he is undergoing treatment
China: Acrobat falls from height after rope snaps in daring stunt
This is the heartstopping moment an acrobat fell when his rope snapped in mid-air while performing the same stunt that resulted in his wife’s death.
Zhang Kai fell from a height of about 16 feet while suspended from a crane during a performance in Shangqiu, in China’s Henan province, on Monday. The footage showed Zhang gripping a silk rope as the crane hoists him into the air. After performing several spins, the rope unexpectedly breaks, causing him to plummet heavily to the ground.
The performance was being live-streamed to thousands of viewers who witnessed the terrifying fall, with some saying they heard people shouting to “call the ambulance” before the broadcast was shut down. Zhang’s brother later reported that he was transported to a hospital in Zhengzhou with multiple injuries, although none were life-threatening.
The fall happened just a little over a year after a similar act which claimed the life of Zhang’s wife, who died during an acrobatic performance in Suzhou, Anhui Province, in April 2023. She was performing alongside Zhang when she seemingly lost her grip and plummeted to the stage.
The woman, whose name was not disclosed, was declared dead just hours later, and left behind Zhang and their two children. Following her death, Zhang vowed to retire from high-altitude acts but reportedly accepted this performance as a temporary favour for a friend.
The organisers of the event have since advanced medical expenses for Zhang’s treatment. His brother reassured worried family members through a public statement: “Zhang Kai is out of danger. Our other brother is by his side, and we thank everyone for their concern.”
There have been several documented cases where performers have been injured or killed while performing or practicing stunts. Earlier this year, a circus performer was rushed to hospital after falling from the “Wheel of Death” at Blackpool Tower Circus.
Spectators, including children, were left in complete shock when one of the daredevils performing on the spinning apparatus lost his footing and plunged to the ground. Emergency services quickly treated the fallen artist.
The circus tent was then promptly cleared out, stunned attendees claimed after the incident. The performer reportedly was “recovering well” and was treated for a minor injury to his wrist.