Martha Stewart has admitted she has “really screwed up” as she responds to critics of her Halloween costume. The 85-year-old lifestyle guru sparked controversy online when she shared a photo of herself dressed as a homeless person on Saturday, October 31.
In a since-deleted photo, Stewart can be seen wearing ripped jeans with dirt on her face, while holding up a sign that read: “I AM HUNGRY HELP ME!!”
Social Media Backlash
Unimpressed users took to social media to express their frustration with the look. “Imagine being that comfortable and that out of touch at the same time,” said one. “Poverty isn’t a costume.”
“How insensitive do you have to be to dress up as a homeless person?,” said another.
Stewart's Response and Apology
The 85-year-old has now responded to the backlash, stating that it was “never my intention” to offend and that her costume was “intended to bring more awareness to the very serious subject of homelessness”.
In her first statement addressing the controversial costume, she said: “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. I am committed to continuing to make a difference.”
In a follow-up statement, she apologised and said her previous comments “didn’t go far enough”. “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.”
Accidental Post and Scepticism
The picture appeared to have been shared accidentally, as it was included in a carousel promoting her candle collection on QVC. The caption of the post read: “My QVC candles are perfect for Halloween!!!”
Some were sceptical about Stewart claiming that she was trying to raise awareness through her outfit. “You have enough money to raise awareness without turning homelessness into a Halloween costume,” wrote one, while another added, “why not donate to a battered women’s shelter? Or fund an entire soup kitchen?”
In the US, there are at least 770,000 homeless people, according to official figures.
