Martha Stewart attributes mishap with Halloween costume to Today show host Craig Melvin

Martha Stewart said that a spill by "Today" co-host Craig Melvin forced her to abandon a sweater she had intended to wear during a segment on the program. Speaking at the CrossCountry Mortgage Sales Rally in Orlando, Florida, Stewart explained that the chocolate spill made the sweater too dirty for a Halloween party she was attending, leaving her with only ten minutes to choose an alternative outfit. She described the resulting costume as a “bum” look, adding a sign that read “I’m hungry.”

Stewart previously appeared on the "Today" show wearing a white American flag sweater and Olympic cap while preparing treats. After the incident, she said the costume was meant to raise awareness of homelessness, a cause she said she supports through charitable work. The costume, which included a flannel shirt, cardigan, ripped jeans, a beanie, dirt on the face and a sign stating “I am hungry. Help me!!,” attracted criticism on social media.

In response to the backlash, Stewart posted an apology on Instagram, acknowledging that the costume was insensitive and that her earlier statement had not fully addressed the concerns.

Representatives for Stewart and Melvin did not respond to requests for comment.