Brooklyn Shop Owner Says Kelly Clarkson's Viral Complaint Felt Like A 'Molotov Cocktail'

Art of Play co-owner Adam Rubin told Business Insider that Kelly Clarkson's viral social media complaint about his small Brooklyn shop felt "like she threw a Molotov cocktail at us," thrusting the store into a sudden online firestorm.

Clarkson wrote on X that she had driven to Brooklyn to visit the shop and was treated as though she couldn't afford an item she wanted, comparing the experience to the scene in "Pretty Woman" where Julia Roberts' character is dismissed by salespeople at a luxury store.

Rubin disputes that account, saying Clarkson had actually asked to buy Molly, a one-of-a-kind wooden bird automaton that was not for sale; Clarkson responded by calling the shop liars.

Rubin said the shop received online threats after the post went viral, but also hugs from supportive strangers who stopped by. He told USA Today that, as of Tuesday, the bird is now for sale.