By Zuleihat Owuiye, Nigeria

American television personality and entrepreneur Martha Stewart has expressed regret over her Halloween costume after it sparked widespread criticism on social media.

Stewart said she was “distressed” by the backlash and apologised over her decision to dress as a homeless person for the Halloween celebration.

The lifestyle expert, author and businesswoman faced criticism after sharing an image of the costume in a now-deleted Instagram post.

In the photograph, Stewart wore a black hat, distressed jeans and a cardigan, with dark marks smeared across her face. She also held a sign bearing the words, “I AM HUNGRY HELP ME!!”

The post attracted attention partly because its caption promoted her candle collection, prompting criticism over the perceived use of homelessness as a costume while advertising a commercial product.

Stewart later acknowledged that her decision was inappropriate, admitting that she had made a serious mistake.

The controversy has renewed discussions about the sensitivity required when portraying vulnerable groups, particularly people experiencing homelessness.

While Halloween is widely associated with creative and unconventional costumes, the incident highlights how certain choices can be viewed as insensitive when they turn real-life struggles into entertainment.

Stewart, who built a successful career through television, publishing and lifestyle businesses, is among America’s most recognisable entrepreneurs. Her public image has long been associated with home decoration, cooking and entertaining.

However, the reaction to her Halloween post shows how even established public figures can face criticism over decisions made on social media.

The incident also underscores the importance of considering the message conveyed by online posts, especially when promotional content is attached to images involving sensitive social issues.

Stewart’s apology signals her recognition of the concerns raised by the costume, although the controversy has continued to draw attention to the broader question of how homelessness should be represented in popular culture.