The Discovery Channel announced Sunday that it’s canceling its “Everest Jump Live” special after an avalanche at Mount Everest killed 13 people – the worst disaster in the famed peak’s history.
The network had just scheduled a date for the special, in which climber Joby Ogwyn would ascend to the summit before making a death-defying leap in a specially designed wingsuit.
Ogwyn and a seven-member NBC production crew were on the mountain during Thursday’s massive avalanche preparing for the special, which was scheduled to air May 11, but were not harmed.
All 13 victims were Nepalese sherpas who were prepping the mountain for climbing season. Three more sherpas are still missing and presumed dead.
“In light of the overwhelming tragedy at Mt Everest and respect for the families of the fallen, Discovery Channel will not be going forward with Everest Jump Live,” said network exec. Laurie Goldberg.
“Our thoughts and prayers go out to the whole Sherpa community.”