New York shop says Kelly Clarkson tried to buy item not for sale, defends itself after ‘8 million’ attacks
A New York toy store, Art of Play, has responded to Kelly Clarkson's social media claims of poor treatment, stating she tried to buy a permanent, non-sale item ("Molly" the bird automaton). The store defended itself against "8 million" attacks following Clarkson's post, expressing hope to clear things up with the singer.
Why it matters
This incident highlights the significant impact of celebrity social media posts on small businesses, demonstrating how a single public complaint can quickly escalate into widespread backlash and reputational damage, even if the full story is more nuanced.
The singer and former talk show host had previously called out Art of Play on social media
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The New York toy store that Kelly Clarkson claimed treated her like Julia Roberts’ character in Pretty Woman has responded to her criticism — and it seems there’s more to the story than the star first shared.
On Friday, the 44-year-old singer and former talk show host took to social media to claim that she was treated poorly by staff at Art of Play.
Also covering this story
7 other newsrooms covered this event. We read each version separately.
The small business drama involving Kelly Clarkson, a Brooklyn toy store, and an animatronic bird
Kelly Clarkson slams Brooklyn store over ‘Pretty Woman’ treatment
Kelly Clarkson says a Brooklyn store snubbed her. The shop says the item she wanted wasn’t for sale.
Kelly Clarkson Claims She Got the Pretty Woman Treatment at N.Y.C. Store: ‘You Just Lost a Huge Sale’ - People.com
Kelly Clarkson Says NYC Store Treated Her Like Julia Roberts in 'Pretty Woman'
Store Responds After Kelly Clarkson Says Staff Treated Her Like Julia Roberts’ ‘Pretty Woman’ Character
Kelly Clarkson calls out Art of Play in Brooklyn over alleged snub
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