Martha Stewart Issues Apology After Wearing Homeless Costume on Instagram

Lifestyle guru and media personality Martha Stewart issued an apology over the weekend after facing widespread criticism on social media for posting a Halloween costume depicting a homeless person. Stewart, 85, initially shared a photo carousel on Instagram showing her in ripped clothing and a dirtied face while holding a sign that read, "I Am Hungry Help Me!!" The post also included a caption promoting her QVC candles, stating that they were perfect for Halloween.

As screenshots of the deleted post circulated online, social media users quickly condemned the imagery as tone-deaf, offensive, and out of touch. Commenters and public figures criticized the decision to use homelessness as a costume, with some calling the attempt to humorously or festively portray a severe socioeconomic crisis shameful.

Following the initial wave of criticism, Stewart deleted the post and released a statement to media outlets expressing regret. She stated that she was distressed that her costume had offended people, explaining that her intention was to bring awareness to the serious issue of homelessness in the United States.

“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,” Stewart said in her statement, adding that she remains committed to making a difference.

As the backlash continued to grow online, Stewart posted a fuller and more direct apology to her personal Instagram account. Acknowledging the severity of the misstep, she wrote that it is hard to admit when someone has really screwed up and noted that many people are currently suffering economically.

“Wearing a costume like I did was insensitive and not funny. I am very sorry,” Stewart wrote, later adding that her initial statement did not go far enough to address the concerns raised by the public.

The controversy drew sharp rebukes from advocates and organizations working with unhoused populations. Dave Giffen, executive director of the Coalition for the Homeless, criticized the choice of attire, telling Newsweek that Stewart should have known better than to rely on an ugly stereotype and describing the costume as pretty gross.

Critics also pushed back against her stated intentions. Actor and activist Indya Moore dismissed the explanation as an unbelievable excuse and characterized the apology as a manipulative counterattack, while online commentators continued to question why extreme poverty and hardship would be framed as a costume.