In a surprising moment from her new Netflix documentary, Martha Stewart mistakenly referred to journalist Andrea Peyser as deceased, even though Peyser is, in fact, alive. Stewart, reflecting on her infamous 2004 trial, spoke about Peyser’s coverage and remarked that the journalist “is dead now, thank goodness.”
The comment came during Martha, a Netflix documentary released on October 25 that offers insights into the life of the 83-year-old media icon. Stewart, recalling the journalists who had covered her trial, took a moment to single out Peyser. “New York Post lady was there, just looking so smug. She had written horrible things during the entire trial. But she is dead now, thank goodness. And nobody has to put up with the crap she was writing all the time,” Stewart said.
However, on Thursday, Peyser broke her silence on Stewart’s erroneous statement. In a bold response, she announced, “I’m alive b****!” Peyser, who began her career with the New York Post in 1989, expressed both surprise and sadness over the comment. “News of my passing came as a shock,” she said, choosing to address the bizarre misunderstanding with a sense of humor.
Peyser further added, “Rather than feeling angry or worried that Martha has offed me, or to seek an emergency order of protection, I am overwhelmingly sad in the face of Martha’s bitterness.” She noted that Stewart’s apparent resentment had lingered for years, a sentiment she found “overwhelmingly sad.”
The reason behind Stewart’s mistaken declaration remains unclear, but the error has certainly stirred interest. Stewart’s documentary delves into various aspects of her life, from her rise to fame to her legal troubles and the media scrutiny she faced, including Peyser’s critical reporting. Peyser’s coverage of Stewart’s trial was often pointed and unsparing, which may explain Stewart’s lingering frustration.
Ultimately, Stewart’s misstatement has provided an unexpected moment of levity for Peyser, who responded with both humor and perspective, showing that despite the past, she’s very much alive and well.