Martha Stewart Addresses Criticism Over Halloween Costume Mocking Homelessness.
Martha Stewart is speaking up. The lifestyle expert apologized for the incident after sharing a picture of herself dressed as a homeless person for Halloween, which has now been removed. She also explained her intentions.
“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” on November 1, Stewart claimed in a statement to People, “to make the most of one of my favorite holidays of the year.”
Therefore, she clarified, “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.”
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The Martha Stewart Show alum wore damaged jeans and a plaid button-up underneath a torn button-up in the picture, which was shared on social media before Stewart removed it. She added a beanie to finish the ensemble, she had filth on her face and a placard that said, "I AM HUNGRY HELP ME!" on a clipboard. (The post's caption urged fans to purchase candles from her QVC line.)
The 85-year-old continued by describing how homelessness has been a matter near and dear to her heart.
“Homelessness continues to remain one of America’s greatest challenges and ongoing crises,” she added, “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.”
And in spite of the current error, she stressed, “I am committed to continuing to make a difference.”
Stewart has been contacted by news organizations for comment, but they have not received a response.
Stewart has been in the spotlight for decades, so she is accustomed to stepping in occasionally, but she believes it's better to have one's head held high. Ultimately, as she acknowledged in 2013, "I've never hit a bottom, just bumps in the road."
