Singer-songwriter Kelly Clarkson has publicly criticized Brooklyn store Art of Play after claiming she was snubbed while inquiring about a $15,000 mechanical bird named Molly. The 44-year-old, born in 1982 in Fort Worth, took to social media to express her frustration, comparing the experience to a scene from the film Pretty Woman.
Clarkson's Claim of Store Snub
According to Clarkson, she visited the store and asked about the bird, only to be treated dismissively. She stated that a staff member looked at her "as if I couldn't afford it and was told he could find something comparable for me." This mirrors the movie where Julia Roberts's character, Vivian Ward, is ignored in a boutique. Clarkson, whose net worth is estimated at $60m by celebritynetworth.com, reacted by posting on X to her 8.8 million followers: "Wow, dude. You're an idiot and just lost a huge sale."
Store's Response and Escalation
Art of Play responded on Instagram, expressing surprise at being "attacked by eight million people who have never visited our store." They also claimed that Molly was not for sale. Clarkson countered, saying, "Sure, it wasn't for sale. So the whole conversation we had when I asked you if it was for sale whilst pointing to the price tag … didn't happen … Okay, cool. So you're not only rude, you're also a liar." She added, "I never blast people but you my friend were an exception. Your store is really cool. Unfortunately, you aren't."
Ongoing Dispute and Clarification
The Times reported that Art of Play said a worker told Clarkson that while Molly was not for sale, a similar bird made by an artist in Seattle was available for $15,000. The store said they reached out directly to resolve the issue, stating, "We really do wish her the best and hope that someday we can all laugh about this misunderstanding." The dispute remains unresolved, with Clarkson standing by her account of the interaction.
