Martha Stewart Craig Barritt/Getty Images for Emma Grede Martha Stewart is addressing the backlash over a since-deleted photo of her Halloween costume, where she appears to be depicting a homeless person.
In the photo posted on Instagram before being quickly deleted, TMZ reported that the lifestyle guru and media mogul was seen in ripped clothing with dirt on her face. She was also holding a clipboard with a message that read “I AM HUNGRY HELP ME!!”
In a statement to People, Stewart said she’s “distressed” that her Halloween costume offended people, as she intended to raise awareness about homelessness.
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“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 to make the most of one of my favorite holidays of the year,” she said. “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. “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,” Stewart continued. “I am committed to continuing to make a difference.”
The Hollywood Reporter has also reached out to Stewart’s rep for comment.
TMZ reported that the photo was included in an Instagram carousel promoting candles she sells on QVC. “My QVC candles are perfect for Halloween!!!!!” the post’s caption read.
After screenshots of the photo started circulating on social media, people didn’t hold back on their criticism. “Martha Stewart absolutely tone deaf and totally out of touch. Absolutely shameful,” one person wrote on X. Another person said, “Mocking homelessness is not okay or funny.”
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