Brooklyn, NY – Pop star Kelly Clarkson took to X (formerly Twitter) on Oct. 10 to describe a contentious visit to Art of Play, a local magic and games retailer on Brooklyn. Clarkson said staff treated her as if she couldn’t afford the items she was interested in, likening the experience to the scene in the 1990 film Pretty Woman where Julia Roberts’ character is looked down upon by a high‑end boutique.
Clarkson’s complaint
In her post, Clarkson wrote that she drove to Brooklyn to check out the store, which she described as “really rad,” only to be told by an employee that she could not purchase a specific item and that the staff would find something comparable. She added, “Wow, dude. You’re an idiot and just lost a huge sale,” and urged followers to avoid the shop if they value respectful service.
Store’s response
Art of Play replied on Instagram, stating that Clarkson asked about a one‑of‑a‑kind singing and dancing bird automaton named “Molly.” The shop explained that Molly is permanently mounted on the wall and is not for sale. The store said it would keep a low profile while attempting to clear up the misunderstanding with Clarkson.
In a follow‑up clarification, Art of Play described the interaction in more detail. According to the shop, during the five minutes Clarkson spent inside, she inquired about the mechanical bird. Staff explained that while Molly is a fixture, a nearly identical automaton is owned by the creator, artist Bliss Kolb of Seattle, who might part with a twin for $15,000. The shop also offered to show Clarkson a different singing bird made by a German clock‑making workshop, priced at about $2,000, but noted she left before seeing it.
Public reaction
The exchange quickly went viral, accumulating more than 43 million views on Clarkson’s post. Commenters on both sides have weighed in, some pointing out inconsistencies between the store’s initial statement and its later clarification, while others criticize Clarkson for airing the dispute publicly.
Local residents expressed mixed feelings. Some defended the store, emphasizing that certain display pieces are not inventory, while others sympathized with Clarkson, arguing that a high‑profile customer deserves courteous treatment regardless of price.
Background on Art of Play
Art of Play is known for selling magic tricks, puzzles, and novelty games, drawing enthusiasts from across the city. The shop frequently hosts live magic shows and workshops, making it a cultural fixture in the Brooklyn entertainment scene.
Next steps
Both parties have indicated a willingness to resolve the matter privately. Art of Play said it has reached out to Clarkson to “clear the air,” and Clarkson’s recent posts suggest she remains open to dialogue.
ABC News has contacted both the singer and the store for further comment.
Original reporting: Brookhaven News – ABC7 New York — read the source article.
