Slacklining pioneer Andrew “Sketchy Andy” Lewis dies in BASE jumping accident

Upon hearing of the tragic passing of “sketchy” Andy Lewis, I’ll admit I didn’t know who the guy was. The Australian domain is my scene and I’m not yet across much of what’s happening overseas or who the characters over there are. I do however remember seeing those iconic photos of Andy highlining in front of the full moon and looking at those images in awe. 

So who was “sketchy” Andy Lewis?

As it turns out, he was one of the most influential figures in the history of slacklining and highlining. More than just an athlete, Lewis was an innovator who helped push the sport into the mainstream through his bold vision and willingness to attempt what others wouldn’t. He became the first person to land a backflip on a slackline, claimed multiple world records, won the 2010 Slackline World Cup and even performed during Madonna’s 2012 Super Bowl halftime show.

Beyond slacklining, he was also a climber and BASE jumper known for constantly pushing boundaries and inspiring others to see what was possible. Whether you knew his name or simply recognised his iconic photographs, there’s no denying the lasting impact he had on the adventure sports community.

All images courtesy of Reel Rock 7

What happened?

Lewis, 39, died in a BASE jumping accident near Moab, Utah, on 14 June while conducting a tandem jump with a client. According to online reports, both Lewis and the passenger sustained fatal injuries after their parachute failed to deploy correctly following a jump from a 280-foot cliff known as Mary’s Gash.

Emergency responders were called after witnesses left the remote site to seek mobile phone reception, but both individuals died as a result of the accident.

The news has prompted an outpouring of tributes from across the climbing, slacklining and BASE jumping communities, with many remembering Lewis for his creativity, boldness and influence on the sports he loved.

While investigations into the incident continue, Lewis’s death is a sobering reminder of the inherent risks involved in BASE jumping, even for the sport’s most experienced practitioners. Yet for many who knew him, “Sketchy Andy” will be remembered not for the way he died, but for the creativity, courage and infectious enthusiasm that made him a defining character of modern adventure sports.

All images courtesy of Reel Rock 7

Did you know “Sketchy” Andy?

Join us on socials and share your stories.