The Brooklyn store called out by Kelly Clarkson over her alleged rude shopping experience is speaking out, offering its side of the story after the singer publicly criticized its staff. Art of Play claimed that Clarkson had asked to purchase a unique item that was never available for sale, while also expressing regret that her visit left her feeling unwelcome.

The independent store shared its response on X on Sunday, October 11, explaining that Clarkson had visited its Brooklyn location the previous day and asked about buying Molly, a one-of-a-kind singing and dancing bird automaton used in the magic shows hosted at the shop. According to the business, the bird is permanently attached to the wall and is not for sale.

Despite disputing the circumstances surrounding the visit, Art of Play acknowledged Clarkson’s frustration and emphasized that every customer should feel welcome, whether they intend to buy something or simply browse. The store explained that visitors often spend hours exploring its puzzles, games, and toys, adding that shopping should be an enjoyable experience for everyone.

The response came after Clarkson shared her disappointing experience with her 8.8 million followers, comparing the treatment she allegedly received to Julia Roberts’ character in Pretty Woman. The singer said she had driven all the way to Brooklyn because she was excited to check out the store and had several items she wanted to purchase.

 

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However, Clarkson claimed that a staff member looked at her as though she could not afford the products and suggested finding something comparable instead. Frustrated by the interaction, the American Idol winner called the employee an idiot and said the store had lost a major sale.

Clarkson ended her post by encouraging people to visit Art of Play if they wanted to experience the kind of treatment her character reference suggested, turning her personal shopping complaint into a public controversy for the small business.

The store subsequently found itself at the center of widespread online attention. In its statement, Art of Play said it was shocked to be suddenly facing criticism from millions of people who had never visited the shop. The business described the experience as surreal, noting how quickly a single celebrity’s post had brought such intense public scrutiny.

The latest response also followed another social media move that drew attention. The store had previously shared positive customer reviews praising its staff’s kindness, but those posts were later deleted.

Despite the growing backlash, Art of Play thanked the friends who had supported the business throughout the controversy. It also expressed hope that the situation could eventually be resolved directly with Clarkson.

“We’re going to keep our heads down and hopefully we can clear things up with Kelly someday,” the store wrote, ending its message with a reference to Clarkson’s 2011 hit Stronger (What Doesn’t Kill You).

For now, the two sides have offered different perspectives on the encounter. While Clarkson described feeling judged during a shopping trip she had been looking forward to, Art of Play maintained that the item she reportedly asked about was not available for purchase and insisted that all visitors are welcome. Whether the two parties will eventually speak privately and put the dispute behind them remains to be seen.