CEO and CPO of Astronomer Face Backlash Over Viral Concert Footage

Astronomer finds itself in the spotlight after CEO Andy Byron and Chief People Officer Kristin Cabot were featured on the “kiss cam” during a Coldplay show in Boston, captured in an intimate moment that’s since ignited online buzz. The clip—showing Byron embracing Cabot from behind as they share an awkward smile—quickly went viral, fueling rumors of an affair between the two executives, both of whom are married.

Neither Byron nor Cabot has offered a public response, and Astronomer has remained silent on the issue. The company’s leadership culture is now under scrutiny, and concerns have grown about its corporate image and family dynamics.

At Gillette Stadium on July 16, Byron and Cabot were spotlighted during Coldplay’s “kiss cam” feature. Frontman Chris Martin quipped, “Either they’re having an affair or they’re very shy,” turning the moment viral.

The brief clip has amassed more than 34 million views across platforms like TikTok, Twitter, and Reddit. Dubbed “ColdplayGate,” it has generated a surge of memes and criticism—especially about Byron.

Byron’s wife, Megan Kerrigan Byron, became the subject of online sympathy. After removing “Byron” from her Facebook profile and subsequently deleting it, she has stayed silent amid speculation.

Observers noted another employee, Alyssa Stoddard—recently promoted by Cabot—smiling knowingly during the footage. This fueled accusations of favoritism and blurred lines in Astronomer’s executive circle.

Byron disabled comments on his LinkedIn posts and eventually deleted his account altogether. Yet screenshots of critical remarks—which range from jabs about Coldplay lyrics to calls for accountability—continue to do the rounds.

Astronomer has yet to issue a statement, and all social media comments have been shut off, amplifying concerns that leadership is evading accountability.

Martin’s unexpected commentary heightened public interest. Coldplay’s official X account also joked about designating “camerafree sections for people and their sidepieces,” thickening the plot.

Internet detectives discovered Cabot uses the name Kristin Thornby and may be married to Kenneth C. Thornby, though her marital situation remains unclear. Byron is confirmed to be married, with two children and a residence near the concert venue—all of which has intensified public intrusion on his family life.

Several ex-Astronomer staff have resurfaced to criticize Byron. One former employee labeled him “toxic” and overly sales-driven, calling the viral moment “karma.” Allegations about high-pressure workplace culture and misconduct have been raised.

Elon Musk reacted on X with a laughing emoji when a fake apology statement began circulating. Astronomer co-founder Ry Walker, who left in 2022, quickly distanced himself from the scandal, clarifying he is no longer involved.

With no clarification from the executives or the company, observers are watching to see how Astronomer will manage its brand and internal cohesion as this story continues to unfold.

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