The upcoming Netflix documentary, premiering October 30th, dives into the life of lifestyle mogul Martha Stewart, including candid reflections on her marriage to Andrew Stewart. Notably, Martha offers blunt advice to young women about infidelity, declaring that “if a husband cheats, he’s a piece of…” Such stark statements, alongside her critiques of her former marriage, have sparked a wave of reactions.

Amidst this, Andrew Stewart and his wife Shila Nelson Stewart have broken their silence for the first time. Shila took to Facebook to share her perspective, making it clear this would be their only public comment on the matter. Her portrayal of Andrew sharply contrasts with the image painted by the documentary.

Shila describes Andrew as a “brilliant publisher, avocational naturalist, and nature photographer,” emphasizing his gentle and kind-hearted nature—qualities she witnesses daily. She highlights the beauty, meaning, productivity, and purpose they share in their blended family, which includes five adult children and three grandchildren.

However, Shila does not ignore Andrew’s past, acknowledging the painful and abusive aspects of his nearly four-decade-old marriage to Martha. She criticizes Martha for seemingly unable to move beyond their former marital issues, accusing her of publicly relitigating their relationship through the sensationalized Netflix trailer.

Shila’s statement draws a stark contrast between the man portrayed in the documentary and the loving husband she knows. She closes with a poignant wish for all, including Martha, to experience the depth of love and peace that she and Andrew enjoy.

The documentary also depicts the strain and tension in Martha and Andrew’s marriage. Friends like Kathy Tatlock recall a relationship that often felt more collegial than intimate, marked by criticism and absence. Martha herself admits to mutual mistreatment, encapsulating a complex emotional landscape.

As the documentary’s release nears, public discourse intensifies, highlighting divergent perspectives on a marriage that continues to fascinate and stir controversy. Martha Stewart’s representatives have yet to respond to Andrew and Shila’s statements, leaving the narrative open-ended.

This unfolding story invites viewers to explore the layered personal and public personas behind the screen, challenging simple narratives about love, legacy, and truth.