A Brooklyn toy store faced backlash after singer Kelly Clarkson criticized their service during a visit to see a mechanical bird.
A local toy store in Brooklyn recently became the center of a major online controversy. Singer Kelly Clarkson visited the shop, Art of Play, to look at a mechanical bird. She later claimed that staff treated her poorly during her visit.
Next, the singer posted about the event on social media. She compared her experience to a scene from the movie Pretty Woman. Clarkson felt the employees assumed she could not afford the expensive display item.
However, the store owners defended their actions regarding the encounter. They explained that the mechanical bird, named Molly, is permanently attached to the wall. It is not actually for sale.
Also, the staff offered to help the singer find a similar item. They suggested a different singing bird from a German company. They claim they tried to provide good service during her visit.
Still, the store faced intense criticism after the celebrity's post. The owners reported receiving threats and harassment from online users. They called the experience surreal and difficult for their small business.
Meanwhile, new surveillance video surfaced showing the interaction. The footage shows the singer browsing the shop and talking to an employee. It does not contain any audio of the conversation.
After that, the shop added a humorous sign to the display. The tag now lists the bird at a price of $15 million. They jokingly call it the most famous singing bird in the world.
Finally, some local residents stood up for the business. Regular customers described the shop as a friendly, welcoming place. They expressed surprise at the sudden negative attention the store received.
Now, the shopkeepers want to return to their normal daily work. They declined further comment on the situation. Reporters and customers continue to visit the store in the Cobble Hill neighborhood.