HBO documentary reveals: How a cult lured supermodels in New York

The new HBO documentary "Bring Me the Beauties" by filmmaker Chris Smith sheds light on one of the darkest chapters in New York's fashion industry. The Guardian reports how Frederick von Mierers used his purported high social standing to lure models and attractive young people into his cult. The group combined spiritual teachings with alien obsessions and promised its members enlightenment and transformation.

Hoyt Richards, who as an "all-American" type – tall, tanned and blonde – initially received a football scholarship to Princeton University, later became a world-renowned male supermodel. Variety documents how Richards and other models fell into the clutches of von Mierers' Eternal Values group. The cult deliberately exploited the vulnerability of young, ambitious professionals seeking meaning and belonging.

Systematic recruitment in the 1980s

Rolling Stone explains that the group was active in New York during the 1980s and was distinguished by its image obsession. Mierers' charisma and his access to wealthy circles made him a convincing figure for young people wanting to establish themselves in the fashion industry. The documentary shows how systematically the cult operated – not only models, but also Ivy League students were recruited.

Time Magazine emphasizes that the story demonstrates how vulnerable even successful and intelligent people can be to manipulation. Richards himself is now involved in the documentary and speaks about his experiences as a former member. The series sheds light on recruitment mechanisms, exploitation and the psychological techniques cults use to control their members – a phenomenon that continues to exist in various forms today.