skeleton in the cupboard

cry cupboard

To want or need food; to show signs of hunger.

skeleton

Clipping of skeleton in the closet (“a shameful secret”).

skeleton at the feast

One whose presence brings gloom to a joyous occasion.

skeleton crew

A crew consisting of the minimum number of personnel needed to maintain and operate the basic functions of something, such as a business, a factory, or a ship.

skeleton in the closet

A shameful secret.

the cupboard is bare

There is little to no food or money.