Lifestyle mogul Martha Stewart issued a public apology on Sunday, Nov. 1, following widespread criticism over a deleted Halloween costume that appeared to depict a person experiencing homelessness. Stewart conceded that her earlier response to the outrage fell short, writing in an Instagram statement that it is difficult to admit to a significant mistake.
Addressing her followers, Stewart acknowledged the economic hardships facing many people. She stated that wearing the outfit was insensitive and not funny, offering her sincere apologies to the public. The issue originated on Oct. 31 when Stewart shared a photo of herself wearing torn jeans, a cream cardigan, and a black knit cap as part of an Instagram carousel intended to promote her QVC holiday candles.
As swiftly as it was taken down, online users reposted the snap on various social media platforms and voiced their disappointment in Stewart, whom many accused of mocking people who are unhoused. Outlets such as Page Six and TMZ also reshared the photo. "Super rich people making fun of poor people will never be a gag," @buffys wrote on X. User @GeriPerna highlighted Stewart's estimated $400 million net worth and questioned how wealthy elites view everyday citizens. Additionally, @guyfelicella, who experienced homelessness for years, wrote on X that there was absolutely nothing funny about the costume, calling Stewart another multimillionaire mocking and punching down on people experiencing homelessness.
Before publishing her Instagram apology, the Emmy-winning host and former model spoke to People magazine on Nov. 1 to clarify her intentions. She explained that she had hoped to raise awareness about homelessness and felt distressed that her attire had caused offense. Stewart noted her decades-long history of offering festive recipes, craft project ideas, and hosting advice for Halloween, expressing regret that her efforts resulted in outrage.
In her initial statement, Stewart described homelessness as one of the greatest ongoing crises in the United States. She emphasized her long-standing support for charitable organizations dedicated to combatting the social epidemic and pledged to continue making a positive difference through her platform.
The controversy coincides with national statistics highlighting the scale of housing instability. According to the Department of Housing and Urban Development, more than 745,000 individuals experienced homelessness in the United States on a single night in January 2025. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention also warns that unsheltered individuals face a heightened risk of hypothermia, or dangerously low body temperature, as outdoor temperatures drop during the late autumn and winter seasons.
"It's hard to admit when you've really screwed up," she wrote. "I know many people are suffering economically. Wearing a costume like I did was insensitive and not funny. I am very sorry."
“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," the former model wrote. "I am committed to continuing to make a difference.”
Related Articles
Md. Kazi Bijoy is a dedicated tech enthusiast and content creator with a passion for digital innovation. With years of experience in the tech industry, he specializes in breaking down complex topics into easy-to-understand guides. When he isn’t writing, he explores the latest gadgets and researches emerging trends in the digital world.