Who is Kevin Wolter? Origin, childhood and the path to sport

Kevin Wolter was born in Berlin in 1987. His father was a bodybuilder and ran his own gym – the foundation stone for Kevin. Overweight at the age of ten, he took up martial arts after his parents separated. Three years later he is slim. Then comes strength training. He spends afternoons at his father’s gym, learning technique, nutrition and progression.

This is the origin of a man who will later earn millions on YouTube with precisely this knowledge: What he initially learns from family circumstances becomes his brand. IFBB amateur bodybuilder, competitive sport, and then – at some point – a microphone and a camera.

The rise: Hardgainer Crew, his own channel and the fitness millionaire

In 2016, Kevin joined the “Hardgainer Crew” – a YouTube collective that was relevant in German fitness YouTube at the time. He left the project in 2017. Not in a dispute, but with a vision: he wanted to go his own way. The “Kevin Wolter” channel was relaunched in 2018.

What follows is one of the more remarkable rises in German fitness content:

• 500,000 YouTube subscribers in just a few years
• Over 210,000 Instagram followers at the peak
• Individual videos with 3 to 5 million views
• Sponsorship deals with NeoSupps and Smilodox – six-figure annual revenues
• Own fitness programs, boot camps, consulting
• Foundation of “Kevin Wolter Film und Medien GmbH”

What set Kevin apart from others was that he spoke openly about performance-enhancing drugs in the sport of bodybuilding. At a time when this was still taboo in the scene. That made him polarizing – and therefore interesting. His honesty was not a concept that he had developed. It was just the way he was.

In 2020, Kevin Wolter is wealthy on paper. Several million in his bank account, his own company, deals, reach. Then the descent begins.

The crash: insolvency, 500,000 euros in crypto losses and homelessness

The crash has several causes – none is decisive on its own, but together they are devastating.

Firstly: Views are collapsing. In 2021, clicks are falling noticeably, sponsorship deals are getting worse, new platforms (TikTok, Instagram Reels) are changing consumer behavior. Kevin is not adapting fast enough.

Secondly, the investments. He loses around 500,000 euros in cryptocurrencies – timing in the bear market, risky positions. In addition, he invests several hundred thousand euros in a failed large-scale real estate project. He lends money to acquaintances who then break off contact.

Thirdly, the expenses continue. A lifestyle that was based on a six-figure income is met with declining income.

In 2022, Kevin Wolter Film und Medien GmbH files for insolvency. The mountain of debt: around 250,000 euros. Everything sold – house, cars, watches. At the end of 2024, beginning of 2025, Kevin sleeps on a friend’s sofa.

In February 2025, he makes it public: “I am homeless.”

Celebrities under palm trees, marketing jobs and the empty job afterwards

What happens after the public confession? A surprising amount. Kevin receives job offers. He works at a social media marketing agency for about six months. Not a dream job, but stability. The job is terminated at the end of 2025.

At the same time, he takes part in the fourth season of “Promis unter Palmen – Für Geld mache ich alles!” on Sat.1. Prize money: 50,000 euros. It’s a striking contrast for a man who was a millionaire in 2020 – but Kevin makes no secret of it. He needs the money. He says so.

That’s the Kevin Wolter way.

The video “We need to talk” – What Kevin is up to now

The new Kevin Wolter interview video is not a hype piece. No “I’m back and everything will be better” content. It’s an update. Kevin talks about his current status – athletically, financially, mentally. He shows where he is right now without exaggerating or minimizing the situation.

For people who have followed Kevin for years – and there are quite a few – this is a return to what originally made his channel great: Authenticity without posturing.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KdS_uYocuHU

What he plans to do: Post regularly again. Document his training. Maybe the business side too – his life as an ongoing experiment in ups and downs. That’s not nothing. It’s actually the most interesting thing someone of his age and background can do.

What Kevin Wolter’s story about YouTube success really says

There are many stories of YouTubers who climb to the million mark and then fall. Most of them simply disappear. Kevin reappears – not because he has a PR strategy, but because he always avoids the same mistake: silence.

At his best, he talked openly about doping. At his worst, he talked openly about homelessness. That is a consistency that is rare. And probably the reason why his community hasn’t gone away.

Bodybuilding, sport and personal development – that’s nothing new at FIV. Celebrities with exciting CVs and little whitewashing regularly end up here. Kevin Wolter fits into this category not despite his story, but because of it.

What comes next remains to be seen. But the fact that he is back on YouTube is the first honest sign in a long time that Kevin Wolter has not yet given up on his own path.

The world Kevin Wolter never arrived in – but has always seen: the lifestyle of the biggest stars. FIV documents the private jets of Kim Kardashian, Taylor Swift and Kylie Jenner with all the facts. And for those who want to understand how quickly a fortune disappears, even at the highest level: Celebrity investments in luxury watches – Musk, Bezos and Buffett shows how the most successful billionaires really invest their money.

Stéphane Rolland: Haute couture insider tip

Who is Stéphane Rolland? Stéphane Rolland is a French fashion designer known for his haute couture collections and his work in the fashion industry. He was born in Paris, France, in 1966. Rolland began his career as an assistant to fashion designer Jean-Louis Scherrer and later gained international recognition for his own designs. His fashion creations are often characterized by clear lines, modern cuts and refined elegance. Stéphane Rolland is known for combining traditional craftsmanship and innovative designs in his collections. He has a strong presence in the haute couture world and his shows are often spectacular events.

These are his new looks for 2024!

Chanel: 100% unique pieces

Chanel‘s spring-summer 2024 haute couture collection, designed by Virginie Viard, takes us into the world of ballet and dance. The palette is dominated by pink and white and features sheer silhouettes, short skirts, long dresses, jumpsuits and small capes. The set was designed by Dave Free, Kendrick Lamar and Mike Carson, with music by Michel Gaubert.

John Galliano’s comeback

He was (and still is) one of the names in Paris haute couture: John Galliano. Many years ago he had a huge scandal – more on that after the show – experience John Galliano’s triumphant comeback at his haute couture show under the Paris bridges. A world of elegance and extravagance as he presents his latest creations. Stay tuned for this unforgettable fashion event.

Galliano’s first show in years

Scandal: Galliano’s crash and his apology

British fashion designer John Galliano hit the headlines in 2011 for racist and anti-Semitic comments. In a Paris court, he was sentenced to a fine of 6,000 euros, which was suspended on probation, as reported by the Guardian at the time.

A look at

Galliano, who had previously been celebrated for his creative creations, lost his post as creative director of the fashion house Dior due to his misconduct. His addiction problems and the pressures of the fashion industry played a role in his downfall. Nevertheless, he apologized to the victims and emphasized that anti-Semitism and racism should have no place in our society. The designer’s future in the fashion industry remains uncertain.

The most important facts at a glance

• John Galliano, British fashion designer, on trial in 2011 for racist and anti-Semitic remarks
• Sentenced to a fine of 6,000 euros, suspended sentence
• Insults in a Paris bar in February 2011 and the previous year
• Galliano loses his post as creative director at Dior
• Addiction problems and work pressure as background
• Apologizing to the victims and emphasizing that anti-Semitism and racism are unacceptable
• Uncertain future in the fashion industry

The international model Kim Hnizdo

Kim talks to our magazine about the German and international modeling industry. The model has always wanted to see the world and get out of the German comfort zone. Through her job, she achieves all of this and is constantly getting to know new places, new people and new challenges. Of course, we also spoke to her about “Germany’s next Topmodel”. We asked her what she thinks of the show as a winner and how open she is to radical change today. We also questioned whether she would have gone down this path without GNTM, as she actually chose a different path before the show. Last but not least, we spoke to Kim about mental health and her values. Find out what Kim thinks about these things and much more in this interview!

• Kim’s Instagram

“Out of the German comfort zone”

FIV: Hello dear Kim, thank you very much for taking the time for this interview today. Let’s get straight to it! You are under contract with the renowned agencies Louisa Models and IMG Models. In other words, you also work internationally. What do you like most about the German modeling industry?

KIM: I’ve always wanted to work internationally, see the world, get out of the German comfort zone. Nevertheless, I’m happy when my general wanderlust turns into homesickness, i.e. being back in Germany.

New places, people & challenges

FIV: How nice that you enjoy working practically everywhere. What kind of jobs do you enjoy the most?

KIM: What I love most about my job is being constantly on the move. New places, new people, new challenges. Slipping into different roles and still being so much yourself.

Personal success: Self-realization

FIV: Looking back now, what has been your greatest personal success in your career so far?

KIM: I used to measure my professional success by the names of the brands I work with. Today I understand that self-realization is my greatest personal success – I am truly living my dream with all the ups and downs. Nevertheless, sometimes I can’t believe it myself when I see my face on a magazine cover or randomly somewhere at the airport. You have to rock many, many, many castings for that to happen.

Photo: Kim Hnizdo

Changes in the German modeling industry

FIV: In your opinion, has the modeling industry in Germany changed in recent years and if so, in what way?

KIM: Yes – and finally! We still have a long way to go, but the trend is moving away from the outdated, unhealthy values of the fashion industry towards diversity, personal storytelling, sustainability, etc.

GNTM: Springboard into a new world

FIV: Now we would like to talk to you about “Germany’s next Topmodel”. In 2016, you won the eleventh season of GNTM. How would you rate the show as a winner and as a successful model?

KIM: GNTM was a wild springboard for me into a world whose doors weren’t open before.

Almost a law graduate instead of a top model

FIV: It’s hard to believe, but before you took part in GNTM, you studied law. Do you think you would have gone down this path without GNTM?

KIM: I usually divide my life into the time before and after Topmodel. Simply because my life, the path I take and I have changed fundamentally as a result of the show.

Makeover & changes? YES!

FIV: The makeover on GNTM was a radical change for you, can you imagine making such a change again?

KIM: What felt unimaginable to me back then is now a reality. I now approach change with a lot of openness and curiosity, so a resounding YES.

Mental health: only one way!

FIV: You went through a difficult time last year. Mental health is still a taboo subject in Germany. What do you think needs to change in society for mental health in general to become a priority?

KIM: It is important to destigmatize so-called taboo topics. Mental health is vital, essential and, above all, it is important to educate and share. By sharing my mental journeys honestly and unfiltered, I have received a lot of feedback that has shown me one thing: Many people feel the same way and many finally felt seen, heard and no longer alone. Mental health suffers in times of crisis like these, so for me there is only one way: together!

Photo: Kim Hnizdo

Mental health tips

FIV: What advice would you give to young girls who also want to model in terms of mental health?

KIM: Find out about good therapy options. Especially when you start young, the job shapes you a lot, which is why you should be aware of who you are, where you want to go and how you feel with all the challenges. Awareness is the key!

Comeback on German television

FIV: In addition to GNTM, you also took part in “Promi Shopping Queen” and won there too. Can you imagine taking part in another German TV show?

KIM: After GNTM, it was important for me to make a name for myself internationally as a “real model” in the fashion world. In the meantime, I can well imagine a comeback on German TV.

Women For Women International

FIV: Last but not least, we would like to know what values you stand for as a model?

KIM: As a model, but above all as a person and an independent woman, I stand for solidarity, support and empowerment, especially among women. That’s why I work closely with Women For Women International.

FIV: Thank you again for your time and the great interview! We wish you all the best for the future!

More interviews with models

Did you like the interview with Kim? Then you’ll find more exciting interviews here.

Interview with Trixigiese: Ballerina, content creator & model

Trixi gained her fame through her participation in the 13th season of“Germany’s next Topmodel” and is now a successful model and content creator on Instagram and TikTok. The 23-year-old Berliner loves fashion and fashion. But that’s not her only passion. She moved to Paris on her own for ballet when she was just 17, but that wasn’t her only move either. She loves discovering new things and places and can’t get enough of them. We talk to Trixi about her passions for fashion, ballet and social media. Her job means she works a lot with her boyfriend. This can often lead to problems in relationships. That’s why we asked her for tips on how to make a relationship work despite all this. Of course, we also spoke to her about her participation in GNTM. She shares her experiences with us and how her life has changed after GNTM. You can find out where she has lived, what it was like for her to move to a foreign city alone at a young age and much more in this interview!

• Interview with Trixi

Photo: instagram.com/@samyneo

Interview with Vanessalealia: About GNTM, social media & fashion

Vanessa has been a successful model and content creator since her participation in“Germany’s next Topmodel” this year. On her social media channels you can find model as well as beauty and fashion content. Hauls, inspiration, product tests and fun are all part of her program. The 20-year-old stands out above all with her turquoise hair. She got it during her makeover on GNTM and liked it so much that she still wears it that way today. Find out how she looks after it and how her life has changed after GNTM in this interview. We talk to her about her experiences, what filming days are like and how her life has changed since taking part. Her turquoise hair is her trademark. So she tells us how she looks after it and how she styles her bangs. She reveals her tips for the perfect fringe look. In addition to modeling, fashion is also a big topic on her social media channels. So we asked her if she could only buy her outfits in one store, which one would it be. And what mustn’t be missing from outfits? Accessories! You can find all that here in this interview!

• Interview with Vanessa

Photo: instagram.com/vanessalealia

DSDS off, advertising deals and Instagram statement

After her husband left the jury of DSDS came the big bang: His Insta-story in several parts, against the current Corona measures. Not only the end of DSDS, also advertising partners have jumped off, like Kaufland, more on that in a moment.

Since then, it’s been quiet around “our” Laura! Laura’s Instagram still says “Wifey to @wendler.michael”. So she still loves him, stands by her man.

The last common picture: 5 weeks old

The last picture of the two together on Laura’s Instagram channel is a whole 5 weeks old. Since then, there has only been one Halloween post.

Instagram Statement on Corona & Laura

Update. In the night the pop singer has reported back.

As just reported in Exclusive, Laura’s husband is rowing back a bit. Already at the beginning of the speech on Insta he makes one thing clear:

“He is not a conspiracy theorist or a denier”.

Although just a month ago he said on Instagram “due to the alleged Corona pandemic”. This has caused him to lose many endorsement deals. He also announced that he will return to the stage at the end of the year.

Then he also comes to his wife: Laura. It was billed as “Statement: Top News.” A 12-minute monologue. What does he say to Laura?

As an influencer, she is self-employed

The Wendlers? With this statement he wants to make clear that both careers run independently of each other. That his contracts are terminated has nothing to do with the chances for Laura.

“She is young woman who is completely apolitical and who has no opinion of her own on the actions of the government.”

He goes on to say:

“You have to accept people who don’t have opinions.”

Okay!

And what does Laura do? Lasagna

Laura diligently posts stories of her Wendler lasagna.

After DSDS jury out: What happened?

What happened? Michael Wendler was supposed to become the 4th jury member of the new season of “Deutschland sucht den Superstar” next to Dieter Bohlen, Mike Singer and Maite Kelly. But during the filming Michael Wendler stayed away from the set of the production. During the ongoing live casting, many still wondered what was wrong with him. He provided the answer himself on Instagram, as Corona measures opponent.

Kaufland commercial: deal off the rails

On the same weekend, the new Kaufland commercial was released. Directly on Monday, the supermarket chain withdrew the commercial and the associated campaign.

Uncle Sam product placement: deal falls through

Another deal that fell through due to the exit is a product placement for the sports / clothing brand “Uncle Sam”. Almost everyone knows the founder of the brand: Robert Geiss, father of Davina Shakira Geiss and Shania Tyra Geiss.

According to insiders, the deal would have brought in 200,000 euros.

Laura unimpressed?

On Instagram, you can still find:

Wifey to @wendler.michael

Tip. We met with a social media expert earlier this year to learn more about Laura’s career. Read the interview here:

• Laura Müller & Michael Wendler

Laura makes lasagna: recipe

To at least give you an update, here’s our favorite from the month: Wendler Lasagna.

Wendler meat sauce

• Olive oil
• 750 g minced meat (mixed)
• 1.5 onions
• 3 garlic cloves
• 1.5 bunch parsley (also frozen)
• 1.5 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1.5 cans of tomatoes (peeled), approx. 800g
• Some red wine

Bechamel sauce:

• 1/2 litre milk
• 45 g butter
• 60g flour
• Salt, pepper
• Lemon juice
• Nutmeg

Last: Lasagna and cheese

Instagram Recipe from Laura

Recipe and vegan alternative to cook at home

If you want to make a delicious lasagne yourself, here are two detailed recipes that you can modify again in the original Wendler style.

• Lasagne with meat
• Lasagne vegan – alternative!

Lasagna, tortellini… Pasta varieties!

PS: Lasagna, tortellini, … what types of pasta are there actually?

• Spaghetti
• Rigatoni
• Macaroni
• Penne
• Linguine
• Strozzapreti
• Fettuccine
• Gnocchi
• Tortellini
• Chifferi
• …