Kelly Clarkson's store callout shows the 'power' of celebrity statements: expert

recent headline-making feud has public relations experts saying the viral attention brings risks for the store, but could create an opportunity if it handles the backlash well.

Over the weekend, Clarkson called out Art of Play, a Brooklyn store known for its collection of toys, games, books, puzzles and other unique items, for allegedly denying her the ability to buy "Molly," a one-of-a-kind singing and dancing bird automaton.

"Just drove all the way to Brooklyn to check out this store I thought looked really rad and had a few things in mind to buy and literally was looked at as if I couldnt afford it and was told he could find something comparable for me," Clarkson wrote.

"Wow, dude. Youre an idiot and just lost a huge sale," she continued.

KELLY CLARKSON SLAMS BROOKLYN STORE OVER PRETTY WOMAN TREATMENT

Clarkson then compared the encounter to a memorable scene from the 1990 movie "Pretty Woman," in which Julia Roberts character, Vivian Ward, is dismissed by a boutique saleswoman who assumes she cannot afford the stores clothing.

"But yall should go check out Art of Play in Brooklyn if you enjoy being treated like Julia Roberts character in Pretty Woman. For sure, check it out," Clarkson added.

The singers description of the incident echoed the famous "Pretty Woman" scene, in which Vivian returns to the boutique after being rejected and tells the saleswoman, "Big mistake. Big. Huge."

A source told People: "Shes usually very private and public drama like this isnt her."

"Shes clearly so ticked off that she couldnt keep quiet about it. Everyone is surprised by how much this whole thing has escalated," the insider told the outlet.

Doug Eldridge, founder of Achilles PR, told Fox News Digital that this debacle speaks to three key points: "1. The power and presumptive veracity of celebrity statements and/or accusations; 2. The staggering pace and scale of social media as a tool of dissemination; 3. The critical need for a crisis communications plan, regardless of the size of your business."

Art of Play posted a response to Clarkson's original social media callout, claiming that they have had "8 million people" bombarding them with hateful messages after the singer's accusations.

"Imagine our surprise when our small local business was suddenly attacked by 8 million people who have never visited our store. Its been a surreal experience to be the focus of such widespread outrage after just one mention by a celebrity. Thanks to all our friends for their support and welcome to all the curious folks who discovered us amidst the drama. Were going to keep our heads down and hopefully, we can clear things up with Kelly someday. As a talented popular singer once said what doesnt kill you makes you stronger," the store posted to their Instagram page on Sunday afternoon.

Eldridge continued, "Irrespective of which side you believe, this has proven Winston Churchills famous quip: 'A lie gets halfway around the world before the truth gets its pants on in the morning.'"

After the store's Instagram post, Clarkson took to her X account and Instagram stories on Sunday afternoon to respond to their claims.

"Cool, cool. Sure, it wasn't for sale. That's the narrative Art of Play is gonna go with," Clarkson wrote, adding a thumbs up emoji.

The singer continued: "So the whole conversation we had when I asked you if it was for sale whilst pointing to the price tag hanging on the wall with the title Singing