Hoyt Richards, widely recognized as the industry’s first male supermodel, has spoken publicly about his involvement in a secretive group known as Eternal Values.
Richards rose to prominence in the mid‑1980s, modeling for major fashion houses and becoming the highest‑paid male model of his era. At the height of his career, he was a frequent presence at New York’s iconic nightlife venues.
In 1978, when he was 16, Richards met Frederick von Mierers on a beach in Nantucket. Von Mierers presented himself as a charismatic mentor, discussing spirituality and the universe, and encouraged the teenager to consider a more “enlightened” path.
Following a shoulder injury that ended his football ambitions, Richards turned to modeling at von Mierers’ suggestion. The group’s doctrine emphasized perfection, abstinence from drugs and alcohol, and a rejection of sexual relationships.
Richards later described the recruitment process as a subtle form of seduction rather than an overt invitation. He recalled being told he was “different” and that his intelligence made him a prime candidate for the group’s teachings.
Members were required to surrender earnings to von Mierers; Richards reportedly handed over his modeling income while continuing to stay in luxury hotels, returning each night to sleep on a mat at the group’s communal residence.
The organization employed tactics that isolated members from their families, encouraging them to view outsiders as “brainwashed” and to report any perceived transgressions within the group.
Richards remained involved for two decades before leaving in 1999. He now works as a speaker, offering guidance to families affected by similar groups and warning of the psychological manipulation involved.
A recent documentary has featured Richards’ testimony alongside accounts from other former members, shedding light on von Mierers’ obsession with recruiting attractive individuals and his claim of an extraterrestrial “walk‑in” experience.
Richards explained that von Mierers framed his teachings as a rescue from a metaphorical “Matrix,” positioning the group as the sole source of truth and discouraging any reconnection with former acquaintances.
The documentary includes archival footage supplied by Richards, who preserved records from the group’s early years. Von Mierers died in 1990, shortly before a major exposé was published.
Richards emphasizes that his story illustrates how charismatic leaders can exploit personal insecurities, and he continues to advocate for increased awareness of cult dynamics.
