Brooklyn shop's Adam Rubin says Kelly Clarkson fans are threatening his workers

The Kelly Clarkson shopping spat has spilled over onto the people who work the counter. One of the owners of Art of Play, the Brooklyn toy and magic store at the center of the fight, says his employees are now on the receiving end of threats.

How the fight started

Clarkson wanted to buy a mechanical singing bird she says carried a $15,000 price tag. The store insists the piece was never for sale. Staff pointed her to a less expensive option instead and she went on to criticize the shop online.

She compared her visit to the scene in "Pretty Woman" where boutique clerks snub Julia Roberts.

Three rough days

Adam Rubin, one of the store's owners, talked to reporters Tuesday while out in New York City. He described the 72 hours since Clarkson went public as deeply stressful for everyone at the store.

Rubin says the attention has turned into a pile-on against the business. Many of the people demanding an apology have never walked through its doors, he notes.

Supporters caught in the crossfire

Customers who spoke up for Art of Play have been targeted as well. Rubin pointed to one comment aimed at a supporter that dragged in a beloved pet and an incurable illness.

He says he never pictured the anger growing this large. In his view Clarkson saw it coming because she understands how much pull her fame carries.

An offer to make peace

Rubin believes the singer is mostly upset that the shop treated her like any other shopper. Even so he says he is open to a truce. He has invited her to one of the magic shows the store puts on for guests 21 and older.