Comedienne Tamale Rocks discovered a two-way mirror in a bar bathroom on Saturday, and after posting a video about it on YouTube it caught the attention of nearly 3 million viewers, including Chicago police.
NBC News reported that the mirror, located inside Cigars & Stripes in Berwyn, is not likely coming down anytime soon, as owner Ronnie Lotz told reporters its part of a Halloween gimmick.
"This is a giant funhouse, ladies and gentlemen," Lotz told reporters Monday evening. "I put a lot of heart and soul into this business, and I am sorry to tell you this, but there is no hanky panky going on in that bathroom."
The mirror in question is attached to the door of the bathroom's broom-closet, directly across from the bathroom's single toilet. When Tamale Rocks opened the door out of curiosity, she was shocked to discover that part of it had been cut away. That allows anyone standing in the closet full view of toilet.
Lotz said that most patrons are fully aware of the mirror, as it's been there since 2001.
Several patrons who spoke to NBC reporters said they were unaware of it, however.
In a heated conversation with Jezebel.com, Lotz called Tamale Rocks a "b****" and said she made the video simply to gain viewers and fans.
"There’s a big movement in reality TV to be outraged about feminism," Lotz said. "So yes: Come see my mirror; eat my wings — I don’t know what to tell you, honey."
After investigating the bathroom and interviewing Lotz and several patrons, Berwyn police told reporters they would not file any charges over the mirror. They said there was no evidence that anyone's privacy rights had been violated.
The Chicago Tribune reported that during Halloween and other events, a scary Bride of Frankenstein or a vampire figure is placed behind the mirror. When patrons walk into the bathroom, the figure is lit up and can be seen from the front side of the mirror.