American lifestyle guru and television personality, Martha Stewart, has apologised after facing widespread criticism for dressing as a homeless person in a Halloween costume shared on social media.
The 85-year-old businesswoman admitted that she had made a mistake, describing the costume as insensitive and inappropriate after her post triggered criticism from social media users.
Stewart sparked controversy after sharing a photograph of herself dressed in ripped jeans, a distressed shirt and a black beanie, with dark makeup smeared across her face to create the appearance of dirt.
She was also holding a cardboard sign bearing the inscription, “I AM HUNGRY HELP ME!!”
The photograph was shared on her Instagram account on October 31, as part of a post promoting her QVC candle collection.
However, the image quickly attracted criticism, with several social media users accusing the lifestyle personality of making light of homelessness and the difficult circumstances faced by people without shelter.
Some critics described the costume as offensive and insensitive, arguing that homelessness and poverty should not be treated as entertainment or used as Halloween dress-up themes.
Following the backlash, Stewart deleted the photograph and issued an initial statement explaining that her intention was to draw attention to homelessness.
In the statement, she said she was distressed that the costume had offended people, insisting that she never intended to upset anyone.
She also described homelessness as one of the major challenges facing the United States, adding that she had spent considerable time and resources supporting charities working to address the crisis.
Stewart said she remained committed to supporting organisations and initiatives seeking to improve the lives of people experiencing homelessness.
However, her initial response did not end the criticism, prompting her to issue a more direct apology through her Instagram account.
In the second statement, she acknowledged that her earlier explanation had not gone far enough and accepted responsibility for the controversy.
“It’s hard to admit when you’ve really screwed up. My earlier statement didn’t go far enough,” she wrote.
“I know many people are economically struggling. Wearing a costume like I did was insensitive and not funny. I’m very sorry.”
The apology generated further reactions online, with some users welcoming her decision to acknowledge the mistake, while others questioned why the costume had been considered appropriate in the first place.
Some critics also called on the businesswoman to use her influence and financial resources to support people experiencing homelessness rather than portraying their circumstances as a Halloween costume.
Others urged social media users to accept her apology, arguing that public figures should be allowed to acknowledge mistakes and learn from them.
Stewart is widely recognised for her work in lifestyle television, cooking, home decoration, gardening and entertainment.
She built a successful media and business career through books, magazines, television programmes and consumer products, becoming one of America’s most recognisable lifestyle personalities.
Her Halloween costume controversy has renewed conversations about the sensitivity required when representing vulnerable people and the importance of respecting individuals experiencing poverty and homelessness.
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