Martha Stewart apologizes for homeless Halloween costume that sparked backlash
Martha Stewart, the billionaire lifestyle mogul, posted and then deleted an Instagram photo on Halloween of herself dressed as a homeless person, complete with tattered clothing, dirt-smeared makeup, and a sign reading "I am hungry, help me." The post was part of a carousel promoting her QVC candles. The costume immediately sparked widespread criticism on social media, with users calling it tone-deaf, mocking, and out of touch with the 700,000-plus homeless people currently living in the United States. Stewart initially responded Sunday, saying her costume was intended to raise awareness about homelessness. However, critics pointed out the apparent disconnect between her billionaire status and the poverty she portrayed. By later Sunday, Stewart issued a fuller apology, acknowledging that dressing as a homeless person was insensitive and not funny. She said many people are suffering economically and that she had not gone far enough in her first response.
Key facts
- Martha Stewart dressed as a homeless person for Halloween wearing ripped clothing, dirt makeup, and holding a sign reading 'I am hungry, help me'
- The photo was posted as part of a carousel promoting QVC candles on Saturday, October 31, 2026
- Over 700,000 people are currently homeless in the United States according to official data
- Stewart's Instagram post was deleted after public backlash, and she issued two apologies on Sunday, November 1
- In her second apology, Stewart acknowledged the costume was insensitive and that she had not gone far enough in her initial response
How different outlets framed it
Left-leaning coverage: Left-leaning voices highlighted the stark irony of a billionaire mocking people experiencing homelessness and poverty. Critics noted that rather than raising awareness, the costume exemplified wealth inequality and elite disconnect. Some called out the pairing of the homeless costume with candle promotion as particularly tone-deaf.
Right-leaning coverage: Right-leaning coverage was limited, but Fox News framed Stewart's statement without added editorial critique, allowing her words about intention and awareness to stand. Conservative outlets did not emphasize class-warfare angles or political implications in available coverage.
Limits of this briefing
Right-leaning perspectives were limited in available coverage, with most outlets offering straightforward reporting rather than distinct political framing. The story remains active and Stewart's second apology suggests evolving developments.
Sources
- NBC News: Martha Stewart responds to backlash over 'hungry' homeless Halloween costume Centre
- CNN: Martha Stewart says she 'really screwed up' with homeless Halloween costume Centre
- Fox News: Martha Stewart addresses backlash over homeless Halloween costume Right
- CBC News: Martha Stewart says she 'really screwed up' after posting homeless Halloween costume Centre
- ABC News: Martha Stewart apologizes for homeless person Halloween costume Centre