A dispute between singer Kelly Clarkson and a small Brooklyn store has sparked debate about celebrity influence, customer service and the consequences of public criticism on social media.
The disagreement began Saturday when Clarkson visited Art of Play, a Brooklyn store selling books, games and playing cards that also hosts magic shows, reported AP News.
Clarkson said in a social media post that she felt judged by the store staff when she attempted to purchase a high-priced mechanical bird, and was treated as if she couldn't afford what she wanted. She identified the business and expressed frustration over the interaction, saying she "drove all the way to Brooklyn" to check out the store.
"Ya'll should go check our Art of Play in Brooklyn if you enjoy being treated like Julia Roberts' character in Pretty Woman," Clarkson said.
The store went back and forth with Clarkson several times on social media, debating whether the bird was listed as for sale and whether the shop workers treated Clarkson with fairness.
Art of Play responded on social media, initially stating that the item was not for sale before adding that staff members had tried to find an alternative. Clarkson disputed the store's account, prompting further exchanges online.
"We've reached out to Kelly directly to try and clear the air," the store wrote in one of their responses. "We really do wish her the best and hope that someday we can all laugh about this misunderstanding."
As of Oct. 14, however, the novelty shop announced that the bird would be on sale for $15 million, reported NBC.
The incident has raised questions about the responsibilities that accompany a large social media following.
“I don’t understand why these people are willing to debase themselves on behalf of a celebrity they never met,” said Adam Rubin, one of the store's owners.
Alfred Archer, an assistant professor at Tilburg University in the Netherlands who researches the ethics and politics of fame, said celebrities should consider the potential consequences of their public statements.
The dispute also highlights the difficulty of assessing competing accounts when one party has substantially greater public visibility than the other. Although Clarkson has the right to describe her experience, the response to her post illustrates how online criticism can extend beyond the original complaint.
