Kelly Clarkson and a Brooklyn store owner are trading verbal jabs through social media after the singer said she got “Pretty Woman” treatment over a dispute over an expensive singing bird sculpture she says she tried to buy.
Here’s how it all happened.
Clarkson posted Saturday: “Just drove all the way to Brooklyn to check out this store I thought looked really rad and had a few things in mind to buy and literally was looked at as if I couldn’t afford it and was told he could find something comparable for me. Wow, dude. You’re an idiot and just lost a huge sale. But y’all should go check out Art of Play in Brooklyn if you enjoy being treated like Julia Roberts character in ‘Pretty Woman.’ For sure, check it out.”
On Sunday, Art of Play, which is a Brooklyn-based store that sells home goods, puzzles, games, toys and books, responded on its social media, questioning Clarkson’s version of events.
“Yesterday, Kelly Clarkson visited us in Brooklyn and inquired about buying ‘Molly,’ a one-of-a-kind singing and dancing bird automaton who plays an important role in the magic shows we host here,” the post read. “Molly is permanently attached to the wall and isn’t for sale. However, the negative experience Kelly described on twitter would resonate with anyone who has ever felt judged in a shop.
“At Art of Play whether someone comes in to make a purchase or simply look around for a while, they are equally welcome. We greet everyone who walks in the door with the invitation to ‘pick things up and play.’ And they do, many stay for hours enjoying our puzzles, games and toys.
“Imagine our surprise when our small local business was suddenly attacked by 8 million people who have never visited our store. It’s been a surreal experience to be the focus of such widespread outrage after just one mention by a celebrity.
“Thanks to all our friends for their support and welcome to all the curious folks who have discovered us amidst the drama. We’re going to keep our heads down and hopefully, we can clear things up with Kelly someday. As a talented popular singer once said ‘what doesn’t kill you makes you stronger.'”
Clarkson then replied on Sunday, accusing Art of Play of sharing an inaccurate version of the events.
“Cool, cool. Sure, it wasn’t for sale,” she posted. “That’s the narrative Art of Play is gonna go with 👍 so the whole conversation we had when I asked you if it was for sale whilst pointing to the price tag hanging on the wall with the title Singing Bird didn’t happen as you elevator eyed me saying in a condescending tone ‘yes, it’s for sale but it costs 15,000 dollars so if you’d like me to find something comparable for you I can.’ That all never happened and now it’s not for sale. OK, cool. So you’re not only rude, you’re also a liar. Got it ✅
“And by the way, I obviously support small businesses because I was literally at a small business trying to purchase things. I love small businesses and know they are important and I always support them, but you don’t get a free pass to treat people less than in your store just because you are a small business. It’s not that hard to be kind. I never blast people but you my friend were an exception.
“Your store is really cool.
“Unfortunately, you aren’t.”
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With the last post, Clarkson reposted an image showing a $15,000 price tag next to the item.
Clarkson said the owner initially told her the piece was for sale for $15,000 before allegedly offering to find her something comparable.
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