Art of Play Issues Second Statement to Defend 'Misunderstanding' with Kelly Clarkson

Key points

• Art of Play stated on Instagram that the automaton 'Molly' is permanently attached to the wall and serves as a mascot, not a sale item.
• The store claimed an artist named Bliss Kolb in Seattle owns a nearly identical twin for $15,000, and they offered Clarkson a different German-made bird for $2,000.
• Clarkson previously alleged on X that staff treated her like the character in 'Pretty Woman' and ignored a visible price tag.
• The store stated Clarkson did not stay long enough to see the offered alternatives and has reached out to her directly to resolve the issue.
• Clarkson's representative did not immediately respond to requests for comment following the latest statement.

Background

This dispute began on Saturday, October 10, when Clarkson posted on X about her five-minute visit to the Brooklyn Heights shop. Initial coverage noted the store shared and then deleted positive customer reviews in response to backlash. Clarkson's subsequent comments escalated the conflict, leading to the store's first defensive statement on Sunday and Clarkson's accusation that they were lying about the item's availability.

How outlets are covering it

Page Six and Yahoo emphasize Clarkson's aggressive response, noting she labeled the store a 'liar' and 'rude' after their initial defense. The New York Times frames the event as a broader cultural moment where 'everyone has an opinion' about who made the mistake, highlighting the internet's involvement. All sources agree on the core facts: Clarkson's 'Pretty Woman' comparison, the store's claim that the item was not for sale, and the subsequent public exchange. Page Six provides the most detailed account of the store's Monday clarification regarding the $15,000 and $2,000 offers.

Why it matters

The incident illustrates how high-profile consumer complaints can rapidly escalate into public feuds, involving detailed counter-narratives from businesses and intense scrutiny from fans and media. It highlights the tension between celebrity influence and small business reputation management in the digital age.

What to watch

Art of Play has stated it has reached out to Clarkson directly to 'clear the air' and hopes to resolve the matter amicably. Clarkson has not yet responded to the latest statement or the store's direct outreach.