Martha Stewart Deletes Instagram Post After Homeless Costume Sparks Viral Criticism
The media mogul expressed distress over the backlash, claiming her outfit was meant to raise awareness for a social crisis.
By Jenna Mitchell ·
One Instagram carousel containing a now-deleted photo of Martha Stewart in a homeless person costume triggered immediate public scrutiny on Saturday. The image, which circulated widely on social media platforms, showed the media mogul wearing ripped clothing with dirt smeared on her face. She held a clipboard in the photo that displayed the handwritten message: “I AM HUNGRY HELP ME!!”
TMZ first reported the details of the image, noting that it appeared in a promotional post for candles Stewart sells on QVC. The original caption for the carousel read, “My QVC candles are perfect for Halloween!!!!!” After screenshots of the post began trending, Stewart removed the content from her account.
In a statement to People, Stewart described herself as “distressed” that the costume offended the public. She clarified that her goal was to highlight the severity of homelessness in the United States. “I’ve spent decades teaching others how to celebrate Halloween,” she said, referencing her history of sharing recipes and craft ideas. She added that the offense was “never my intention.”
Stewart emphasized her long-term support for charities that address the issue. She stated that homelessness remains one of America’s greatest challenges and a crisis she cares deeply about. “I am committed to continuing to make a difference,” she said.
Reactions on X were sharp. One user called Stewart “absolutely tone deaf and totally out of touch,” while another argued that mocking homelessness is not funny. The Hollywood Reporter has reached out to Stewart’s representative for further comment on the incident.
