Kelly Clarkson finds herself in a costly dispute with a Brooklyn store over an intricate mechanical bird, which has escalated by $15 million. Adam Rubin, the co-owner of Art of Play, has decided to offer the shop’s automated bird, named “Molly,” for an astonishing $15 million amidst the ongoing clash with the famous singer. The store’s listing now showcases Molly as “the world’s most renowned singing bird automaton,” created by Bliss Kolb, priced at $15,000,000.
Rubin disclosed to USA Today that if someone were to purchase the bird, he would reward each shop employee with $15,000 and pay Kolb $1 million. The remaining amount would be utilized to acquire other antique automata. CBC News has attempted to contact Art of Play for verification but has not received a response.
This development marks the latest twist in a saga that has captivated the online community. The new price tag represents a significant increase from the $15,000 that Clarkson claimed to have seen during her visit to the store on October 10.
The shop owner expressed concerns over the situation, highlighting a surge in foot traffic due to the publicity but also facing a wave of negative feedback from the singer’s fans. Rubin voiced, “Kelly Clarkson has put us in danger. We’re worried about our shopkeepers.”
Footage of Clarkson’s visit to the store on October 13, captured by independent journalist Pablo Torre, showcases her browsing the store and engaging with a clerk before departing. The video, without sound, depicts Clarkson examining items and interacting with the cashier before leaving.
The dispute originated when Clarkson alleged on social media that she was treated poorly during her visit, comparing the experience to a scene from the movie “Pretty Woman.” The store responded by clarifying that the bird in question was not for sale, leading to a public back-and-forth between Clarkson and the store.
The online spat intensified with conflicting accounts from both parties, culminating in the store offering an explanation for the pricing discrepancy. Despite attempts to resolve the issue, tensions remain high between Clarkson and Art of Play, sparking widespread interest and commentary on social media.
