Martha Stewart slammed for ‘tone-deaf’ homeless Halloween costume

# Martha Stewart Apologizes After Homelessness-Themed Halloween Costume Sparks Backlash

Lifestyle entrepreneur and television personality Martha Stewart has apologized after facing criticism for a Halloween costume portraying a homeless person. The controversy erupted after she shared a photograph of the outfit on Instagram as part of a promotional post for her candle collection sold through QVC.

The 85-year-old appeared in ripped jeans, a dark hat and a cardigan, with makeup applied to make her face look dirty. She also held a sign reading, “I AM HUNGRY HELP ME!!” The image was included in an Instagram carousel advertising her Halloween-themed candles.

“My QVC candles are perfect for Halloween!!!” Stewart wrote in the caption. The post was subsequently deleted following widespread criticism, with several users questioning the appropriateness of turning homelessness into a costume.

One commenter described the post as “totally out of touch,” while another argued that making fun of homelessness was neither acceptable nor humorous.

Responding to the backlash, Stewart said her intention had been to draw attention to homelessness, which she characterized as a serious and persistent challenge in the United States. She expressed regret that the costume had offended people.

“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 said.

She also highlighted her involvement in charitable efforts addressing the issue, saying she had devoted considerable time and effort to supporting organizations working to combat homelessness.

Her initial explanation, however, did little to satisfy some critics. Many wanted her to acknowledge why the portrayal itself could be hurtful, rather than primarily explaining what she had intended to communicate. Stewart later issued a further statement, acknowledging her mistake with the words, “It’s hard to admit when you’ve really screwed up.”

Not everyone joined the criticism. Some social media users described the incident as a poorly judged costume choice and argued that Stewart’s apology deserved acceptance.

Stewart has built a longstanding reputation for elaborate Halloween celebrations, creative costumes, seasonal decorations and entertaining ideas. She regularly shares festive recipes, craft projects and hosting advice with her audience and has identified Halloween as one of her favorite holidays.

“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,” she said.

Stewart was not the only public figure to attract criticism over a Halloween costume this year. Content creator McCall DaPron, who is expected to appear in the upcoming “The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives” Orange County spinoff, also faced backlash over a family-themed costume.

DaPron dressed as Jacqueline Kennedy, recreating the pink suit and pillbox hat the former first lady wore on the day President John F. Kennedy was assassinated. Her husband, Kirk, portrayed the president, while their children dressed as Caroline Kennedy, John F. Kennedy Jr. and two Secret Service agents.

The family’s now-deleted Instagram post carried the caption, “Happy Halloween [🩷] The Kennedy’s.” The controversy added to a series of Halloween-related debates this year over the boundaries of costume choices and the potential impact of portrayals involving sensitive subjects or tragic historical events.