A “distressed” Martha Stewart responded to the backlash towards her Halloween costume depicting a homeless person this year. In the since-deleted photos shared on Instagram on October 31, she appeared to have dressed up as a homeless person. The photos quickly drew criticism, resulting in Stewart having to clarify her actual intentions for dressing the way she did.
Martha Stewart reacts to Halloween costume backlash
In photos several outlets, including TMZ, captured, Martha Stewart appeared to depict a homeless person. She wore ripped jeans and makeup that looked like dirt on her face. She also held up a sign that said, “I AM HUNGRY HELP ME!!” Now deleted, the photos caused immense backlash.
On November 1, the lifestyle mogul shared a statement to PEOPLE, explaining her true intentions. She said that she was “distressed” that her costume offended when she actually wanted to raise awareness about homelessness. She began, “I’ve spent decades teaching others how to celebrate Halloween — sharing fun, festive recipes, providing unique craft ideas and giving tips on entertaining and hosting to make the most of one of my favorite holidays of the year.”
“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,” Stewart added. “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 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. I am committed to continuing to make a difference.”
TMZ reported that the photo was part of a campaign for the candles she sells on QVC. The post’s caption allegedly read, “My QVC candles are perfect for Halloween!!!!!” Screenshots of her costume sparked intense backlash online.
