Martha Stewart, 85, is addressing backlash over a since-deleted Instagram photo of her Halloween costume depicting a homeless person. She said the costume was meant to raise awareness of homelessness and that offending people was never her intention. Criticism continued online, though some users defended her.
Martha Stewart is addressing backlash over a since-deleted photo of her Halloween costume in which she appears to be depicting a homeless person. Stewart, 85, sparked the backlash after posting an Instagram photo of herself in tattered clothes with dirt on her face, holding a sign asking for help because she is hungry. The photo showed her in tattered clothing with makeup meant to look like dirt on her face.
Part of a candle promotion
The photo was shared in a carousel of snaps promoting Stewart's candles. The image was part of an Instagram carousel promoting her QVC candles, and the post was quickly removed after a wave of criticism in her comment section. The photograph appeared alongside images promoting the candles, with a caption saying her QVC candles are perfect for Halloween.
Stewart's statement
In a statement sent to Page Six on Sunday, Stewart said she was distressed that her costume offended people. She said the costume was intended to bring more awareness to homelessness and that offending people was never her intention. Stewart said homelessness continues to remain one of America's greatest challenges and ongoing crises. She said she cares deeply about the issue and has spent significant time and effort supporting charities combating it. She added that she is committed to continuing to make a difference.
Online reaction
Reddit commenters criticized the costume, with one writing that the level of out of touch is stellar. Despite Stewart's explanation, the costume continued to draw criticism online. Other social media users defended her and said people were taking the costume too seriously. A representative for Stewart did not immediately respond to Fox News Digital's request for comment.
