Aeryn Gillern

Aeryn Gillern was an American model, research clerk, and former beauty pageant titleholder who gained international attention following his mysterious disappearance in Vienna, Austria, in October 2007. Born on April 28, 1973, in Elmira, New York, Gillern spent his early life in New York before pursuing advanced theological and international studies. He became prominent in Austria after winning the Mr. Gay Austria pageant in 2006 and placing as the first runner-up in the international Mr. Gay World competition, while simultaneously serving as an employee at the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO).

Early Life and Education

Raised in Groton, New York, Gillern graduated from Groton High School in 1991, where he actively participated in track and field and choral activities. He subsequently attended Franciscan University of Steubenville in Ohio, earning a Bachelor of Arts degree in Theology in 1997. Following his undergraduate studies, Gillern spent time at a Catholic seminary in Austria before returning to Franciscan University to complete a Master of Arts degree in Theology and Christian Ministry in 1999. Driven by an interest in global affairs, he later earned a second Master's degree in International Relations from Webster University in Vienna.

Modeling and Professional Career

In 2003, Gillern relocated to Vienna after securing a position as a research clerk for UNIDO, where he contributed to economic research and was later elected to the organization's Staff Council in 2007. Alongside his international civil service career, Gillern worked as an athletic model, featuring in commercial campaigns and participating in high-profile Austrian charity events such as Vienna's annual Life Ball. His modeling endeavors led to his selection as Mr. Gay Austria in 2006, as well as his second-place finish in the international Mr. Gay competition held in California.

Disappearance and Legacy

On October 29, 2007, 34-year-old Gillern vanished after leaving his workplace and visiting a local facility in central Vienna. His sudden absence prompted an extensive investigation and sparked significant media coverage across Europe and North America. His mother, Kathryn Gilleran, dedicated years to advocating for a more thorough investigation into his disappearance. The mystery surrounding Gillern's case became the subject of the critically acclaimed 2011 documentary film Gone: The Disappearance of Aeryn Gillern, directed by Gretchen Morning and John G. Young, which chronicled his life, professional accomplishments, and the ongoing search for answers.