Ex-CIA Officer, 62, Becomes Gen Z's Viral Fashion Icon

A former CIA officer who once worked in the shadows is now strutting down fashion runways and captivating millions of Gen Z followers online.

John Kiriakou, 62, never imagined he'd become what he calls "a figurehead for thousands of young men between 15 and 35." But after clips from his podcast appearances went viral, the former intelligence officer found himself walking the catwalk at New York Fashion Week in September.

Designer Elena Velez reached out after hearing Kiriakou's story on several podcasts. Despite admitting he buys $12 t-shirts and rarely thinks about fashion, Kiriakou jumped at the chance to try something completely new.

"I'm 62 years old. When in life am I ever going to get the chance to be on the catwalk at New York Fashion Week?" he said.

Kiriakou's online popularity exploded after appearing on "The Diary of a CEO" podcast. His stories from 15 years inside the CIA resonated with young people who were too young to remember September 11 or the national security controversies that once defined his career.

In 2007, Kiriakou publicly discussed the CIA's use of waterboarding. He later pleaded guilty to disclosing classified information and served 30 months in federal prison. Today, his younger followers know him first through viral videos rather than those headlines.

Why This Inspires

Kiriakou believes his appeal isn't about being perfect. It's about being honest. He speaks openly about government, politics, and his own mistakes.

"I have literally nothing to lose," he said. "I have nothing to gain by lying."

That authenticity strikes a chord with Gen Z, who Kiriakou says are increasingly skeptical of traditional politics. He describes them as the generation with the most political independents, frustrated with both parties and hungry for voices they can trust.

"There is a special place in my heart for Gen Z," Kiriakou said. "It's because of Gen Z that I've been able to turn my life around and to do things that I had, for the last 62 years, never thought I could do."

Beyond runway shows and viral videos, Kiriakou connects with supporters through personalized video messages on Cameo. His reach spans millions across multiple platforms.

Despite his criticism of modern politics, Kiriakou remains hopeful about the generation that lifted him up. "I think that these are real leaders in waiting," he said. "I think they're the ones who are going to save the country."