Martha Stewart has found herself at the center of controversy after sharing a Halloween costume that sparked widespread criticism. The television personality and businesswoman dressed up as a homeless person, holding a sign asking for food and assistance.
Although she initially released a statement explaining her intentions, many fans felt her response was not enough. Stewart has now issued a second statement, apologizing for her costume choice and admitting that she had gone too far.
The 85-year-old attracted criticism over Halloween weekend after posting a photograph of herself dressed as a homeless person. In the now-deleted image, Stewart wore torn clothing, with dirt covering her face.
She also held a sign that read, “I am hungry. Please help.”
The photograph quickly attracted negative reactions from followers, with many urging her to remove the post.
Stewart eventually deleted the image. A few hours later, she issued a statement to Page Six addressing the controversy.
“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,” Martha Stewart wrote.
She went on to explain that homelessness is an issue she genuinely cares about and has spent considerable time supporting through charitable efforts.
“Homelessness continues to remain one of America’s greatest challenges and ongoing crises, something that I care deeply about and I have spent a significant amount of time and effort supporting charities that combat this ongoing social epidemic,” she said, adding that she is “committed to continuing to make a difference.”
Stewart also discussed her enthusiasm for Halloween, describing it as one of her “favorite holidays of the year.”
She explained that she has spent years helping others enjoy the celebrations by “teaching others how to celebrate Halloween — sharing fun, festive recipes, providing unique craft ideas, and giving tips on entertaining and hosting.”
However, deleting the photograph and issuing an initial explanation did little to stop the criticism. Comments about the costume continued appearing beneath her other Instagram posts.
For example, a video featuring Stewart preparing a chicken and dumpling recipe also attracted criticism about the Halloween controversy.
“Now go make this for a soup kitchen full of people you just turned into a Halloween costume,” one user wrote, according to EW.
Another person asked, “What happened to your costume? Got embarrassed?”
A third commenter simply stated, “The Halloween costume is unforgivable-“
Martha Stewart Says She “Intended to Bring More Awareness” Around Homelessness
Throughout the years, Stewart has transformed herself into several different characters for Halloween.
In 2024, she appeared in elaborate royal clothing inspired by Queen Elizabeth I. In 2011, she dressed up as “Motha,” while her first Halloween episode of The Martha Stewart Show in 2005 featured her as Jane of the Jungle.
This year’s costume, however, generated a very different reaction.
Although Stewart had already addressed the controversy in her statement to Page Six, she later shared another message through her Instagram Stories. On November 1, she acknowledged that her earlier response had not gone far enough and offered a direct apology.
According to the BBC, Stewart said she was:
“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 then admitted that her initial response had not adequately addressed the concerns raised by her followers.
“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,” she added.
Her second statement received a mixed response. Some followers appreciated her willingness to acknowledge the criticism and apologize.
One supporter wrote:
“Martha, we still love you. Sometimes the joke comes out a little underbaked. We’ve all had our moments.”
Fans Defend — and Question — Her
Not everyone believed the controversy deserved such a strong reaction.
Another follower defended Stewart, commenting:
“Martha! You’re fine, it’s Halloween and it’s just a costume. Not everything is a political or social statement.”
However, other social media users remained unconvinced by her explanation.
One commenter questioned the response from those around her, writing:
“I want to know the annual salary of everyone who was OK [with] it.”
Another person expressed disappointment while acknowledging their affection for the television personality:
“Love Martha, but how did no one on your PR team tell you that wasn’t a good idea?”
The controversy has shown just how differently people can interpret a Halloween costume, particularly when it involves a serious issue such as homelessness.
While Stewart said her intention was to draw attention to an ongoing social crisis, some followers felt the costume was insensitive toward people experiencing homelessness.
Her second apology acknowledged those concerns more directly, although reactions to the incident remain divided.
What do you think about Martha Stewart’s Halloween costume and her apology? Share your opinion in the comments.
