Kelly Clarkson disputes treatment at Brooklyn's Art of Play

Singer Kelly Clarkson is involved in a viral dispute with Art of Play, a novelty shop in Brooklyn, New York. The conflict began after Clarkson posted on social media that she felt treated like the character in ‘Pretty Woman’ after inquiring about a $15,000 mechanical singing bird named Molly. She alleged that staff members looked at her as if she could not afford the item and offered her something ‘comparable’ instead.

The store, co-owned by Adam Rubin, clarified that the specific bird, Molly, is a permanent installation and not for sale. They stated that staff had offered to help her find a similar item or facilitate the purchase of a nearly identical version through the artist, Bliss Kolb. Following the massive online backlash and accusations of being ‘rude’ and ‘liars,’ the shop reported receiving threats, harassment, and instances of doxxing directed at employees and neighbors.

In response to the controversy, the shop has reportedly raised the price of a similar automaton to $15 million. Security footage of Clarkson’s visit, which lasted approximately five minutes, has since been released online. While the video shows her browsing and speaking with staff, it lacks audio, leaving the exact nature of the verbal exchange unconfirmed. The incident has sparked a broader debate regarding celebrity influence and the impact of social media on small businesses.