National media outlets reported on Sunday that Martha Stewart, the television personality, entrepreneur and author, issued a public apology after her Halloween costume sparked a wave of criticism. In a now‑deleted Instagram post, Stewart appeared dressed as a homeless individual, wearing a black hat, distressed jeans, a cardigan, and black marks on her face while holding a sign that read “I AM HUNGRY HELP ME!!”. The image was posted to promote her candle collection.
Backlash and public reaction
Social‑media users quickly condemned the costume as tone‑deaf and offensive. One commentator called it “the most tone‑deaf Halloween costume” of the year, while another described it as “grotesque, disgusting, morally bankrupt, incredibly wrong,” adding, “What in the ‘let them eat cake’ is this costume?” The criticism highlighted concerns that the portrayal trivialized the lived experience of the more than 700,000 people experiencing homelessness in the United States, according to official data.
Stewart’s response
Stewart told Page Six that the costume was intended to bring attention to homelessness, a crisis she says she cares deeply about. “I am distressed that my Halloween costume yesterday, which was intended to bring more awareness to the very serious subject of homelessness, has offended people, which was never my intention,” she said. She added that she has spent “a significant amount of time and effort supporting charities that combat this ongoing social epidemic.”
Later that day, Stewart posted an apology on her Instagram story, writing, “It’s hard to admit when you’ve really screwed up. My earlier statement didn’t go far enough. I know many people are suffering economically. Wearing a costume like I did was insensitive and not funny. I am very sorry.”
Context of costume controversies
The incident follows other recent costume controversies. In August, Target withdrew a Halloween costume that depicted a circus clown after critics argued it evoked blackface and minstrel shows. Such episodes illustrate the heightened sensitivity surrounding cultural and social representations during holiday celebrations.
Looking ahead
While Stewart’s apology has been noted, the episode underscores the broader conversation about how public figures address social issues. Advocates for the homeless community continue to call for substantive policy solutions and increased charitable support, rather than symbolic gestures that may be perceived as exploitative.
CNN has reached out to Stewart’s representatives for further comment.
Original reporting: 40/29 / KHBS (NW Arkansas) — read the source article.
