Martha Stewart Apologizes After Dressing as a Homeless Person for Halloween

Martha Stewart is facing heavy criticism after dressing up as a homeless person for Halloween. Her costume for Saturday's holiday featured tattered clothes, dirt-style makeup, and a sign that said, "I am hungry. Help me!!." Fans quickly called the costume offensive and in poor taste, leading Stewart to delete the photo from Instagram.

Statement

Stewart released a statement to Page Six on Sunday to address the reaction. She said she was distressed that the costume offended people, adding that she never intended to cause upset. She explained that the look was meant to bring attention to the serious issue of homelessness. Stewart stated that homelessness remains a major crisis in America and something she cares about deeply. She noted that she has spent significant time and effort supporting charities that fight this social problem and remains committed to helping.

Context

Public figures often face strict scrutiny on social media when their creative choices touch on sensitive social issues like poverty and hardship. In other professional news, Cate Blanchett is set to play Stewart in an upcoming biopic titled "Good Thing," directed by Janicza Bravo.