Martha Stewart apologizes for Halloween costume after backlash on TODAY

Martha Stewart used her appearance on TODAY on Nov. 6 to address criticism of a Halloween costume that many said resembled a homeless person. She said the outfit, which featured torn clothing and makeup to look dirty, was intended to raise awareness about homelessness but was "insensitive and not funny." Stewart apologized, calling the choice "stupid" and expressing hope that her followers and the public would forgive her.

"I made a mistake. I was stupid, what else can I say? I am so sorry," Stewart said.

During the interview, co-host Craig Melvin asked whether a prior incident, in which he allegedly spilled chocolate on her sweater, had led her to change costumes. Stewart replied that she had no costume because of the spill but did not blame Melvin, describing the comment as a joke.

"I didn’t have a costume because you had spilled some chocolate on my white sweater, and I don’t blame you at all," she told Melvin.

Stewart also referenced feedback from her grandson, who described the costume as "tone-deaf," and said she had not intended to mock anyone or downplay the issue of homelessness. She noted that she has supported charities addressing the problem and pledged to pay closer attention to social issues.

The costume was originally posted on Instagram alongside a promotion for her QVC candle collection, but the post was later removed after the backlash. Stewart issued two statements to NBC News and on Instagram, acknowledging the misstep and reaffirming her commitment to continue supporting efforts to combat homelessness.