‘American Ninja Warrior’ Exclusive Clip: Ninja Teen Sensation Kai Beckstrand Proves He’s Unstoppable In His Semifinals Run

Kai Beckstrand has long been a ninja to be reckoned with. From his early days on American Ninja Warrior Junior, through his journey on American Ninja Warrior, Beckstrand and his course runs have been analyzed by fans everywhere. Part of the legendary Beckstrand family (father Brian, mother Holly, sister Baylee and brother Luke) have all competed on the show), Beckstrand has long set himself apart, thanks to his lightning fast abilities and commanding presence.

For ANW Season 17, Beckstrand lost his signature blond mohawk and put on 20 pounds of muscle. Now with the nickname “Big Body,” the 19-year-old ninja showed his dominion in his qualifying run, earning the fastest time in the qualifiers and conquering the Mega Wall for the 3rd time. In this exclusive clip from tonight’s all-new episode, Beckstrand tackles the semifinals course with its 10 grueling obstacles.

The clip begins with host Zuri Hall pumping up Beckstrand as he approaches the starting area. She exclaims: “Coming into this season, many named Kai Beckstrand as the ninja to beat, and so far he is living up the hype.” With his family and girlfriend on the sidelines cheering him on, Beckstrand begins his run, easily making his way through the Quad Steps, Fly Wheels, and Long Run. He briefly pauses before starting on Spin Cycle and continuing on through Ferris Wheel and up the Warped Wall.

As he starts on the back half of the course, host Matt Iseman adds his commentary from the host tower. “He just crushed it. Almost the same speed as in qualifying,” says Iseman. “He’s not slowing down for anything.” Beckstrand hops ups the Salmon Ladder and navigates the perilous Corkscrew directly afterwards. Despite his expertise, both Iseman and host Akbar Gbajabiamila express concern as Beckstrang begins the Doorknob Arch. “This is where fatigue normally starts to catch up to you,” warns Iseman. “Especially once you get to the top of the arch here,” adds Gbaja-Biamila. “That’s about 20 feet up. Two stories up high, that’s big.”

Beckstrand, of course, clears the obstacle with ease before tacking the grueling Invisible Ladder, which requires ninjas to pull themselves up 30 feet in the air on hanging rings in a chute to reach the buzzer at the end. As Beckstrand begins his ascent, Iseman and Gbajabiamila provide commentary. “It’s not just about having strength; it’s about having strength endurance,” says Gbaja-Biamila. “Look at him, just muscling it up,” chimes in Iseman.

Beckstrand looks strained as he hangs off the rings, giving himself a moment to rest. “This is when it catches up to you,” says Iseman, noting Beckstrand’s exhaustion. “He’s slowing down, but he getting close.” Beckstrand passes the 25 foot mark and continues towards the 30 foot mark. “Come on, Kai,” urges Gbajabiamila, as Beckstrand uses his legs to make it up to the platform. Beckstrand hits the buzzer, completing his run and earning the fastest time so far. 


Will Beckstrand be the fastest ninja of the night? Tune in tonight to American Ninja Warrior on NBC at 8/7c to find out!