Martha Stewart apologized Sunday after facing backlash over a Halloween costume that portrayed a homeless person. The entrepreneur and media personality first said she had not intended to offend anyone, but later acknowledged that her initial response was insufficient and that she had “really screwed up.”
“My earlier statement didn’t go far enough,” Stewart wrote on Instagram. “I know many people are suffering economically. Wearing a costume like I did was insensitive and not funny. I am very sorry.”
On Saturday, Stewart shared a now-deleted photo of herself wearing ripped jeans, a torn sweater and a dirtied face. She held a clipboard reading, “I Am Hungry Help Me!!” The accompanying caption directed followers to her branded candle collection on QVC, describing the products as “perfect for Halloween!!!”
The post drew swift criticism from people who viewed the costume as out of touch amid widening inequality and an affordability crisis. Others argued that the response to the costume was disproportionate.
In a statement provided to NBC News and other media outlets, Stewart said she was “distressed” by the reaction. She said the costume had been intended to raise awareness about homelessness and noted her longstanding support for charities focused on the issue. A representative also said Stewart had donated the previous week to God’s Love We Deliver, a New York nonprofit that provides meals to people living with illness and homelessness.
Stewart’s Instagram apology came Sunday evening, although many followers continued to criticize her, with some saying that reversing her decision on social media did not go far enough.
Sources: The New York Times Business.