Most Talked-About Controversies Linked to Martha Stewart

A closer look at the most debated and controversial moments involving Martha Stewart.

Martha Stewart is an American businesswoman, writer, and television personality best known for founding Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia. Her success spans publishing, broadcasting, merchandising, and e-commerce, focusing on home and hospitality. She's authored bestselling books, published Martha Stewart Living magazine, and hosted television programs like 'Martha Stewart Living' and 'The Martha Stewart Show,' solidifying her influence on lifestyle and home-related content.

Sections (5)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Challenges & Struggles Controversies & Scandals

December 27, 2001: Sold ImClone Systems stock

On December 27, 2001, Martha Stewart sold all 3,928 shares of her ImClone Systems stock, avoiding a loss of $45,673 after receiving nonpublic information.

June 25, 2002: Grilled on the air about ImClone during her regular segment

On June 25, 2002, CBS anchor Jane Clayson questioned Martha Stewart on the air about the ImClone stock trading case during her segment on The Early Show. Stewart continued chopping cabbage and responded: "I want to focus on my salad."

October 3, 2002: Resigned from the board of directors of the New York Stock Exchange

On October 3, 2002, Martha Stewart resigned from the board of directors of the New York Stock Exchange.

June 4, 2003: Indicted by a grand jury

On June 4, 2003, Martha Stewart was indicted by a grand jury on nine counts, including charges of obstruction of justice.

January 2004: Went on trial

In January 2004, Martha Stewart went on trial.

March 2004: Found Guilty

In March 2004, Martha Stewart was found guilty of felony charges.

July 2004: Sentenced

In July 2004, Martha Stewart was sentenced to serve a five-month term in a federal correctional facility and a two-year period of supervised release.

2004: Confined in Federal Prison Camp

In 2004, Martha Stewart was confined in Federal Prison Camp in Alderson, West Virginia.

2004: Shareholder derivative suit dismissal

In 2004, a derivative suit brought by Monica Beam, a shareholder of MSLO, against Martha Stewart and other directors and officers of the company, was dismissed by the Supreme Court of Delaware.

March 2005: Release from federal prison

In March 2005, Martha Stewart was released from federal prison after serving five months for felony charges related to the ImClone stock trading case.

August 2006: Settlement of Civil Case

In August 2006, the SEC announced that it had agreed to settle the related civil case against Martha Stewart. Stewart agreed to disgorge $58,062 and pay a civil penalty of $137,019.

June 2008: Visa Refusal by UK Border Agency

In June 2008, the UK Border Agency refused to grant Martha Stewart a visa to enter the United Kingdom because of her criminal conviction for obstructing justice.