Billionaire lifestyle trailblazer lights up festival
America's first self-made female billionaire - often hailed as the original global influencer - Martha Stewart has hit the stage at Sydney's Vivid festival.
The home-making icon has had an extremely full life, including publishing more than 100 books, hosting Emmy award-winning television shows and running a successful e-commerce business.
In the early 2000s she faced a five-month stint behind bars after being convicted of conspiracy, obstruction and lying to federal investigators, although she maintains her innocence.
At 83 years old, Stewart is showing no signs of slowing down.
Appearing as part of Vivid's Global Storyteller series in conversation with Benjamin Law, she reflected on her extraordinary career, personal brand and love for home-making and design.
Stewart spoke about some of her most memorable moments in popular culture and how she has stayed relevant for more than 40 years.
She last visited Australia for a family holiday in 2019, but said she was looking forward to exploring Sydney.
"I have made some wonderful memories travelling to Australia over the years, so I am thrilled to return for Vivid Sydney," she said.
"I'm always looking for inspiration when I travel so I'm excited to see what Sydney has to offer."
Vivid Sydney was excited to welcome one of the most revered and fascinating minds to its stage, festival director Gill Minervini said.
"We could not think of a better figure that encapsulates this year's theme of Dream more than Martha Stewart," she said.
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