Tech CEO and HR Chief Suspended After Viral Coldplay Kiss-Cam Moment

Astronomer, a New York-based tech company, has placed its CEO, Andy Byron, and Chief People Officer, Kristin Cabot, on leave following a viral video from a Coldplay concert at Gillette Stadium on July 16, 2025. The clip, captured during the band’s “Jumbotron Song” kiss-cam segment, showed Byron and Cabot in an embrace, sparking widespread speculation about an alleged affair after they quickly tried to hide from the camera. The incident, which garnered over 65 million TikTok views, prompted a formal investigation by Astronomer’s board.

Details of the Incident
The video, filmed by concertgoer Grace Springer, showed Byron with his arms around Cabot as they watched the performance. When displayed on the stadium’s Jumbotron, Cabot covered her face and turned away, while Byron ducked out of view. Coldplay frontman Chris Martin quipped, “Either they’re having an affair or they’re just very shy,” fueling online frenzy. Internet sleuths identified the pair as Astronomer executives, noting Byron is married and Cabot, divorced since 2022, oversees HR. The clip spread rapidly across social media, with memes and a fake apology statement attributed to Byron, which Astronomer debunked as “not a real statement.”

Corporate Response
Astronomer announced on July 18 that its board launched a formal investigation, stating, “Our leaders are expected to set the standard in conduct and accountability, and recently, that standard was not met.” On July 19, the company confirmed Byron and Cabot were placed on leave, with co-founder Pete DeJoy appointed interim CEO. Reports suggest Byron is negotiating an exit package, and the company is searching for a new CEO. Astronomer, valued at over $1.3 billion after a $93 million funding round in May 2025, clarified that no other employees were involved in the incident.

Public and Workplace Implications
The viral moment has raised questions about workplace relationships, particularly given Cabot’s HR role. Byron’s November 2024 press release praising Cabot’s “exceptional leadership” in talent management resurfaced, adding irony to the scandal. Public records indicate Byron remains married, while Cabot’s ex-husband, Kenneth Thornby, finalized their divorce in 2022. The incident has sparked debate about privacy and surveillance, with some noting the power of social media to amplify personal moments.

Developing Story
As Astronomer navigates the fallout, the incident underscores the risks of public exposure for corporate leaders. Neither Byron nor Cabot has commented publicly, and the investigation’s outcome remains unclear. For updates and analysis, visit GeoKHub. Note: Details are based on trusted reports, but the investigation is ongoing, and personal claims about the individuals’ relationships are unconfirmed.