The daredevil couple who climbed New York City’s Empire State Building earlier this year is in talks with prosecutors over a possible plea deal, their attorney confirmed to News Outlet.
Angelina Nikolau, 33, and Ivan Kuznetsov, 32, appeared before a Manhattan judge Tuesday for a status conference. The couple, known for high-risk stunts, scaled the landmark skyscraper in July as part of a marriage proposal that quickly went viral.
They were initially arrested on charges including reckless endangerment, criminal mischief, burglary and misdemeanor climbing of a structure. The pair was later released under court supervision.
Two people held a banner on top of the Empire State Building in New York City July 1, 2026. (WNYW)
At Tuesday’s hearing, a judge ruled that Nikolau and Kuznetsov no longer need to report for monthly “check-ins” with an officer as part of their court-ordered supervision.
Couple shares engagement photos atop Empire State Building after daring climb. (Instagram/angela_nikolau)
Their lawyer, Noam Biale, said the couple is “getting close” to reaching a “resolution” with the Manhattan district attorney’s office.
NYPD bodycam shows officers confronting an unharnessed couple atop a New York City skyscraper. (@NYPDPC/X)
The two daredevils were spotted atop the Empire State Building. (WNYW)
Speaking to reporters outside the courthouse after Tuesday’s hearing, Biale described his clients as “daring and pathbreaking artists whose performances have captivated people all over the world.”
He continued, “They are beloved by New Yorkers, and no one wants to see any harm come to them.”
Ivan Kuznetsov, 32, and Angelina Nikolau, 33, were caught on camera kissing outside the courthouse after their NYC court appearance. (WNYW)
The couple is due back in court on Nov. 12. Biale said he remains confident and “hopeful” that the case will be resolved before the end of the year.
News Outlet has contacted the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office for comment.
