Stewart said the costume was a mistake, apologized to viewers and explained that her earlier reference to the Today anchor was intended as a joke.
Martha Stewart returned to NBC’s Today on Friday, November 6, to address the backlash over her Halloween costume and clarify why anchor Craig Melvin became part of the conversation.
Stewart had faced criticism after sharing, and later deleting, a photo of herself dressed as a person experiencing homelessness. The outfit included distressed clothing and a sign asking for help. Critics described the costume as insensitive.
What she told Craig Melvin
During Friday’s interview, Stewart said she had not intended to mock people experiencing poverty or hunger. She acknowledged that the costume was a mistake and apologized, saying she hoped viewers would forgive her.
She also clarified that her earlier story about Melvin spilling chocolate on a sweater was a joke. Melvin asked why he had been brought into the controversy, and Stewart said she did not blame him for the costume she ultimately wore.
Stewart said the experience reminded her to pay closer attention to social issues. Melvin confirmed that the two had moved past the earlier chocolate spill, according to coverage of the interview.
The Shade Wire takeaway
The latest interview gave Stewart an opportunity to address both the costume backlash and the comments that unexpectedly pulled Melvin into the story. The focus now shifts to whether the apology puts the controversy to rest.
SOURCES
