Martha Stewart has apologised after facing widespread criticism for dressing as a homeless person for Halloween, with many social media users accusing her of making light of poverty and homelessness.
The controversy began after Stewart shared a now deleted Halloween photo on Instagram showing herself in ripped jeans and makeup designed to create the appearance of dirt on her face. She was also pictured holding a sign that read, "I am hungry help me."
View this post on Instagram
The post was accompanied by the caption: "My QVC candles are perfect for Halloween!!!"
The image quickly sparked criticism online, with many users arguing that homelessness is a serious social issue affecting millions of people and should not be used as a costume theme.
Following the backlash, Stewart removed the post and later issued a public apology, acknowledging that her choice of costume was inappropriate.
View this post on Instagram
In a statement shared on Instagram, the television personality admitted she had made a mistake.
"It's hard to admit when you’ve really screwed up. My earlier statement didn’t go far enough," Stewart wrote.
She continued: "I know many people are economically struggling. Wearing a costume like I did was insensitive and not funny. I’m very sorry."
Martha Stewart cookbooks
Stewart, one of America's most recognisable lifestyle figures, built her career on homemaking, cooking and entertaining advice. She first rose to prominence during the 1980s through a series of bestselling lifestyle books before launching Martha Stewart Living magazine in 1990.
The publication's success helped establish a media empire, leading to the debut of The Martha Stewart Show in 1993 and cementing her status as a household name across the United States.
Over the course of her career, Stewart has earned numerous honours, including 12 Daytime Emmy Awards, authored more than 100 books and expanded her brand into television, publishing, retail and hospitality.
View this post on Instagram
Despite her long-standing popularity, the latest controversy highlights the growing scrutiny public figures face when portraying sensitive social issues.
Critics argued that using homelessness as a costume trivialised the real hardships experienced by individuals and families struggling with housing insecurity and poverty.
