Art of Play co-owner says Kelly Clarkson's post was 'like she threw a Molotov cocktail at us'
A small Brooklyn shop, Art of Play, has become the center of an online controversy after Kelly Clarkson accused the store of discriminatory service. The store's owner denies the claims, leading to a viral public dispute.
Why it matters
This incident highlights the power of celebrity social media influence and the potential for viral misinformation to cause real-world harm to small businesses.
Kelly Clarkson's complaint went viral. The store's owner told Business Insider that people in his life are hearing from her fans. Weiss Eubanks/NBCUniversal via Getty Images - Ben Shimkus/Business Insider Art of Play's co-owner told Business Insider Kelly Clarkson's post was "like a Molotov cocktail." The viral fight placed Adam Rubin's small Brooklyn shop at the center of a massive online drama. Rubin says the store got threats online — and hugs from supportive strangers. Adam Rubin said he wasn't supposed to come into work on Tuesday. The co-owner of Art of Play — a small Brooklyn-based shop with tarot cards, funky home decor, magic trick books, and a wooden bird named Molly — said he was supposed to get some stitches removed. Instead, he came in to answer questions about Kelly Clarkson's viral social-media complaint.
Also covering this story
5 other newsrooms covered this event. We read each version separately.
Kelly Clarkson says New York shop Art of Play treated her like Julia Roberts’ character in Pretty Woman
Kelly Clarkson Feuds With Brooklyn Store After Bad Experience
Kelly Clarkson Responds After New York Store Denies She Got the ‘Pretty Woman’ Treatment: “You’re a Liar” - The Hollywood Reporter
Kelly Clarkson’s ‘Art Of Play’ Bird Controversy, Explained
Kelly Clarkson fires back at New York shop as social media rages over getting ‘Pretty Woman’ treatment
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