Kelly Clarkson's Mechanical Bird Dispute Sparks Social Media Firestorm for Brooklyn Shop
Art of Play defends its actions after the singer claimed she was treated poorly over a $15,000 animated bird.
A Brooklyn novelty shop, Art of Play, has become the center of a social media controversy following a visit from Grammy-winning musician Kelly Clarkson. The dispute began when Clarkson publicly stated that the store treated her poorly, implying she could not afford a mechanical bird. The shop has since defended its staff and explained its policies.
Clarkson, known for hits like "Since U Been Gone," posted on social media that she was "looked at as if I couldn't afford" a mechanical bird at Art of Play, which she claimed had a $15,000 price tag. She likened the experience to a scene from the movie "Pretty Woman," where the main character faces social stigma in a retail setting. In a follow-up post, Clarkson stated the store offered to find her something else "comparable" after she inquired about the bird.
Art of Play has countered these claims on social media, asserting that the wooden bird, named Molly, is a permanent fixture attached to the wall and not intended for sale. According to the store, during Clarkson's brief visit on Saturday, an employee mentioned an identical bird was available for $15,000. They also stated they offered her a different, available singing bird for $2,000, sourced from a German clockmaker, which she could have purchased that day.
"Imagine our surprise when our small local business was suddenly attacked by eight million people who have never visited our store," Art of Play said in a statement. "It's been a surreal experience to be the focus of such widespread outrage after just one mention by a celebrity."
The incident gained further attention when a news outlet released surveillance video purportedly showing Clarkson's visit. The grainy footage, lacking audio, appears to show her examining items, including Molly the bird, and speaking with an employee. The video also shows her interacting with the cashier before leaving and returning.
Despite the viral nature of the dispute online, some customers visiting the shop on Wednesday were unaware of the controversy. One visitor, in town to see his daughter, had not heard about the situation. Others expressed surprise at Clarkson's claims of rudeness. Kiran Ramineni, a neighbor, described Art of Play as a "very nice small mom and pop store." Another shopper, Emily Trantanella, 27, stated, "I feel like a pretty woman and I've always been treated very well here. I really like it here."
The shop has reported that its staff have received threats in the wake of Clarkson's online complaint.