Martha Stewart is facing heavy criticism after posting, then removing, an Instagram photo of herself dressed as a homeless person for Halloween. Stewart, 85, appeared in worn, ragged clothing with dirt on her face while holding a sign that read, “I AM HUNGRY HELP ME!”
The image was shared as part of an Instagram carousel that also included photos of candles Stewart sells through the home shopping network QVC. Alongside the carousel, she wrote, “My QVC candles are perfect for Halloween!!!” The controversial photo did not stay up for long before it was deleted, but viewers quickly captured screenshots.
Those screenshots spread to Reddit, where users accused Stewart of making light of homelessness. Commenters described the costume as “gross” and “offensive.” One person wrote, “The level of out of touch is stellar,” while another added, “What on earth was she thinking???? Surely she has staff that would warn her about the optics?? Dumb dumb dumb.”
Some of the backlash focused on Stewart’s wealth. With an estimated net worth of $400 million ($569 million AUD), she was labeled “out of touch” by critics who felt the costume mocked people experiencing poverty.
Stewart later responded in a statement to Page Six. “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 told the outlet. She continued, “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 also said she was “committed to continuing to make a difference.”
The dispute arrives as Stewart continues to lean into a long-running enthusiasm for Halloween. She has become known over the years for elaborate costumes, including dressing as Queen Elizabeth I, along with her seasonal recipes.
