Martha Stewart’s Book Signing Turns Controversial After 'Ignoring' Fan In 'Rude' Interaction

Martha Stewart is facing fierce backlash online after a video from her New York City book signing went viral for all the wrong reasons. The 84-year-old lifestyle mogul, known for her charm and composure, was accused of being “rude” and “dismissive” toward a fan who had reportedly waited two hours to meet her at the event promoting her new book "Entertaining." The controversy began when a woman named Leigha Antonia shared a video on Instagram showing her sister approaching Stewart’s signing table. In the short clip, Martha Stewart can be seen speaking to someone off-camera as the fan nervously waits for her to finish.

Without breaking her conversation, the home and lifestyle legend signs the fan’s book, never making eye contact until she slides it back across the table with a brief nod before moving on to the next guest. “Not my sister waiting two hours for Martha Stewart to sign her book and she low-key ignores her lol,” Antonia wrote over the video, which quickly spread across social media platforms.

The video triggered a wave of criticism across Instagram and X (formerly Twitter), where users blasted Stewart for what they described as disrespectful behavior toward a loyal supporter. “That’s actually very rude,” one fan wrote, while another questioned, “WTF… she was talking to someone else the whole time?” A third said, “You’re there for the purpose of meeting people and signing their books. Have your full attention to that.”

As the clip continued to circulate, more fans chimed in, and the comments only got harsher. Many accused the lifestyle legend of caring more about profit than people, with one viewer writing, “She wants your money, not your time. Hope this helps.”

Others warned fellow followers against expecting too much from their heroes. “Don’t meet your idols lol,” one person commented, while another fan picked a side in the celebrity chef world, declaring, “And that’s why I’m team Ina Garten.”

While fans were divided over her demeanor at the signing, there’s no denying the excitement surrounding Martha Stewart’s long-awaited re-release of her debut book, "Entertaining." First published in 1982, the lifestyle legend’s very first book has officially returned to stores for the first time in more than four decades, and it’s arriving just in time for the holiday hosting season. Once considered a rare collector’s item, the reissued edition brings Stewart’s timeless entertaining wisdom back to the masses, allowing a new generation to experience the book that launched her empire.

The 2025 release is a true facsimile of the original, meaning it’s an exact replica, from the vintage layouts and elegant photography to the heartfelt dedication to her now ex-husband. Inside, readers will find over 300 recipes, creative hosting tips, and elaborate tablescape ideas designed to help every gathering feel unforgettable.

From cookbooks and crafts to gardening guides and home décor bibles, Martha Stewart’s publishing legacy is nothing short of legendary. Over the span of nearly four decades, the lifestyle mogul has written and released an incredible 101 books, solidifying her as one of the most prolific voices in domestic living.

In a recent interview with MarthaStewart.com, she reflected on the moment that changed everything. “What really changed my life was the publication of 'Entertaining' in 1982,” she shared. “That really changed my life. I found my voice, and I think I’d found my career.”

Since then, Stewart has authored bestsellers covering every corner of her world, from Martha Stewart’s "Baking Handbook" and "The Martha Manual" to her fan-favorite "Cookies and Martha’s Flowers." Each book captures the same precision, creativity, and polish that turned her name into a global brand.

The re-release of "Entertaining" couldn’t have come at a better time. With the holidays right around the corner, Martha Stewart’s signature approach to hosting is more relevant than ever. From Thanksgiving spreads to Christmas dinners and New Year’s soirées, her timeless advice on cooking, decorating, and celebrating feels tailor-made for the season of gatherings.

Whether you’re planning a cozy dinner or an elaborate celebration, Stewart’s original playbook for perfect parties has once again become a must-have holiday essential, and it’s already flying off shelves at major retailers nationwide.