From Slate Magazine · J. Bryan Lowder · · 1m 20s
Martha Stewart's Halloween Costume Backlash
Martha Stewart posts homeless costume on Instagram, sparking backlash over homelessness awareness claims.
In brief
Martha Stewart posts homeless costume on Instagram, sparking backlash over homelessness awareness claims. Martha Stewart's Halloween Instagram post showing herself as homeless drew criticism for misrepresenting homelessness as a 'social epidemic' and failing to address economic struggles. Originally reported by Slate…
Martha Stewart's Halloween Post
Martha Stewart posted a Halloween carousel featuring herself in a homeless costume with dirt on her face and a sign reading 'I AM HUNGRY HELP ME!!'
“I AM HUNGRY HELP ME!!”
Social Media Reaction
Reddit users criticized Stewart for 'doing shit like this in 2026' while the photo was quickly deleted and she issued apologies.
“I … am actually speechless that people still do shit like this in 2026”
Stewart's Apology
Stewart's team stated she was 'distressed' that her costume 'offended people' and intended to raise awareness about homelessness.
“It’s hard to admit when you’ve really screwed up”
Homelessness Misrepresentation
Stewart described homelessness as a 'social epidemic' while critics noted her charity work does not directly address homelessness.
“the plight of unhoused people continues to remain one of america’s greatest challenges and ongoing crises”
Stewart's Wealth Context
Stewart has a current estimated net worth around half that of her former billionaire status with a Westchester property.
“a one-time billionaire with a current estimated net worth around half that much”
Public Perception
Stewart's lifestyle content has been seen as relatable despite her wealth, with fans viewing her as a 'good rich person'.
“she’s somehow felt like a good rich person”
Criticism of Approach
Critics argue Stewart's costume was insensitive and failed to address economic struggles of the homeless.
“wearing a costume like i did was insensitive and not funny”
Social Media Impact
Stewart's Instagram post was deleted after backlash, with her latest post praising a Brooklyn pastry shop.
“let them eat cake amirite”
The headline
Martha Stewart's Halloween Instagram post showing herself as homeless drew criticism for misrepresenting homelessness as a 'social epidemic' and failing to address economic struggles.
