Martha Stewart apologises for controversial Halloween costume depicting homelessness

Martha Stewart, the 85-year-old American entrepreneur and media personality, deleted a Halloween photo that showed her in torn clothing with dirt on her face holding a sign that read, "I am hungry help me!!". She said she was distressed that the costume, which she intended to raise awareness of homelessness, had offended people.

In a follow-up statement, Stewart acknowledged the misstep, saying, "It's hard to admit when you've really screwed up. My earlier statement didn't go far enough. I know many people are suffering economically. Wearing a costume like I did was insensitive and not funny. I am very sorry." PR consultant Molly McPherson described the outfit as "insulting, demeaning, confusing – all of the above."

The incident sparked criticism on social media, with some users questioning the appropriateness of the costume. Stewart, who built a career from a 1970s catering business to a media empire that included a magazine, television shows and product lines, has previously faced legal issues, including a 2004 conviction for insider-trading related charges. She has since focused on rebuilding her brand through television projects and product collaborations.