Martha Stewart continues to face criticism over a Halloween costume depicting homelessness, despite issuing multiple apologies and deleting the original post.
The 85-year-old homemaker appeared in torn blue jeans, a damaged flannel and cardigan, and a beanie, with fake dirt on her face. She also held a handwritten sign that read, “I am hungry. Help me!!” The post prompted users to question the decision to portray homelessness as a costume, with some calling it out of touch and offensive.
After removing the image, Stewart told Page Six that the costume had been intended to raise awareness of homelessness. She said she was distressed that it had offended people, adding that homelessness remained a serious crisis and that she had spent significant time supporting charities addressing the issue.
Stewart later commented on an Instagram post about the controversy, saying that her costume was meant to bring homelessness and hunger to people’s attention. She acknowledged that it had not communicated that intention correctly and apologized, while also saying that she supported organizations working on the issue.
Actor, model and activist Indya Moore challenged Stewart’s explanation. Moore wrote that correcting a mistake should involve more active support for the underlying issue, not only an explanation of the costume or its missing caption. Moore also argued that supporting people affected by poverty would require backing policies related to taxation, food, healthcare and education, and shared organizations connected to the cause.
After Moore’s response, Stewart published additional Halloween-related content before posting another apology in a Notes app statement. She admitted that her earlier statement had not gone far enough and said that wearing the costume had been “insensitive and not funny.” Stewart added that she was very sorry.
The original report also noted that a recent U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development report showed homelessness had increased by 27 percent between 2013 and 2025. People experiencing homelessness or at risk of losing their housing can call 2-1-1 or visit 211.org for local resources and support.
Sources: Cosmopolitan.