Martha Stewart Apologizes to Craig Melvin Over Halloween Costume

Martha Stewart apologized to Craig Melvin on a morning program on November 6, after controversy over her Halloween costume and comments linking it to the host. Stewart had dressed as a homeless person, wearing distressed clothing, dark makeup and a sign asking for help. The costume drew criticism as insensitive and out of touch.

Stewart had earlier said Melvin spilled chocolate on a sweater she planned to wear to a Halloween party, leaving her to assemble another costume quickly. On air, she told Melvin her reference to the spill was meant as a joke and that she did not blame him. Melvin said he had apologized for the spill and thought they had moved past it.

Stewart said she had made a mistake and was sorry, adding that she had not intended to make fun of anyone or minimize problems facing the country. She said her grandson had described the costume as tone-deaf and that she needed to pay closer attention to social issues. She also asked viewers and fans to forgive her.

The exchange appeared to settle the disagreement between Stewart and Melvin. Stewart thanked him for giving her the opportunity to apologize on the program, and Melvin thanked her for coming on to do so. Stewart is expected to appear on a forthcoming Thanksgiving special on the morning program.