Martha Stewart Addresses Homeless Halloween Costume Controversy and Backlash

Martha Stewart has responded to criticism after she dressed as a homeless person for Halloween, an outfit many deemed offensive. The lifestyle mogul wore tattered clothes, dirt-like makeup, and held a sign reading “I am hungry. Help me!!” at a Saturday event. The costume drew swift backlash online, with critics accusing Stewart of mocking homelessness. In a statement, Stewart said homelessness is “something that I care deeply about” and that she did not intend to offend. She noted she has supported organizations aiding the homeless. The controversy highlights the sensitivity around using poverty as a costume, especially amid rising homelessness in cities like New York and Los Angeles. Stewart, 83, has built a brand on domestic perfection, and this episode marks a rare misstep for the media icon. Moving forward, the incident may prompt more public figures to reconsider costume choices that trivialize serious social issues.