Kelly Clarkson Spars With Brooklyn Store Over Alleged 'Pretty Woman' Moment
The singer accused a Brooklyn shop of making her feel like she couldn't afford items, while the store claims she was interested in a non-sale display piece.
The Brooklyn curiosity shop Art of Play has responded to Kelly Clarkson's accusations of poor treatment, asserting that they offer "something for everyone" and that the singer's visit was a misunderstanding.
Clarkson, 44, took to social media platform X over the weekend to recount an experience at the Brooklyn Heights establishment. She alleged that an employee "looked at [her] as if [she] couldn’t afford it" and suggested they find something "comparable" for her, a sentiment she compared to a scene from the movie "Pretty Woman." In the 1990 film, the main character is infamously dismissed by a store clerk who assumes she cannot afford the designer clothing.
Art of Play countered Clarkson's claims in an Instagram post, stating that the singer had inquired about "Molly," a unique singing and dancing bird automaton that is a permanent fixture and not for sale. The store emphasized that "everyone is equally welcome" and expressed hope for clearing up the "misunderstanding" with Clarkson.
In a subsequent statement, the shop clarified details about Clarkson's brief visit, noting that they offered to show her a different, albeit more expensive, singing bird automaton that she could have purchased. They claim Clarkson did not stay long enough to view this alternative.
"The median price of an item in our shop is $35," the store stated in a social media post that highlighted various items for sale, including a $7,500 puzzle box and an $895 spinning top, to illustrate their diverse inventory. They emphasized their commitment to curating rare items from talented artisans.
Clarkson publicly responded to the store's explanation on X, calling their narrative false and labeling them "rude" and a "liar."
The public exchange has drawn commentary, with "The View" co-host Sara Haines suggesting Clarkson's public denunciation was an overreaction. Ana Navarro also commented on the power imbalance when celebrities use their platforms to criticize small businesses, potentially harming working individuals.
A source close to Clarkson, however, described the singer as typically "down-to-earth" and "chill," indicating that she must have been "livid" to make the incident public.
