Astronomer CEO Andy Byron Resigns After Kiss Cam Scandal At Coldplay Concert
Andy Byron has stepped down as Chief Executive Officer of Astronomer, a New York-based tech firm, after a viral kiss cam video captured him in a compromising moment with a colleague during a Coldplay concert in Massachusetts.
Astronomer’s board confirmed his resignation in a statement on Saturday, adding that co-founder and Chief Product Officer Pete DeJoy will serve as interim CEO while a search for Byron’s replacement begins.
The incident occurred on Wednesday at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough. During the band’s performance of “The Jumbotron Song,” Byron and Kristin Cabot, Astronomer’s Chief People Officer, appeared on the stadium’s kiss cam.
The pair were seen embracing before quickly ducking out of sight.
Coldplay frontman Chris Martin commented from the stage, saying, “Whoa, look at these two. Either they’re having an affair or they’re just very shy.”
The footage sparked widespread speculation online about Byron’s relationship with Cabot, and rumours circulated claiming Byron had issued a statement.
An astronomer debunked these claims via LinkedIn, stating, “Byron has not put out any statement,” and clarified the misidentification of a third person in the video.
In its official response, the company stated, “Our leaders are expected to set the standard in both conduct and accountability, and recently, that standard was not met.”
The board also disclosed that a formal investigation into the matter is underway and pledged to provide further updates.
Founded in 2018, Astronomer provides AI and machine learning data infrastructure solutions.
The company acknowledged that the incident had brought unexpected attention to its brand but maintained its core mission remains unchanged.
As of Saturday, Byron’s LinkedIn account was deactivated, and his name was removed from the executive leadership section of Astronomer’s website.
However, he remains listed as a board member.
Titilope Adako is a talented and intrepid journalist, dedicated to shedding light on the untold stories of Osun State and Nigeria. Through incisive reporting, she tackles a broad spectrum of topics, from politics and social justice to culture and entertainment, with a commitment to accuracy, empathy, and inspiring positive change.
