INTERNATIONAL: Astronomer CEO, HR Exit After Concert Kiss Goes Viral
Viral Concert Moment
A Coldplay concert at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts, spotlighted Astronomer CEO Andy Byron embracing Chief People Officer Kristin Cabot on the jumbotron. The pair’s abrupt reaction—ducking and hiding—sparked viral speculation about an extramarital affair.
Public and Social Media Frenzy
The clip, capturing Byron and Cabot’s embrace, amassed millions of views across TikTok, X, and Instagram, fueling memes and debates about workplace ethics. Coldplay’s Chris Martin quipped, “Either they’re having an affair or they’re just very shy,” amplifying the moment’s reach.
Corporate Repercussions
Astronomer swiftly placed both executives on leave, initiating a formal investigation into their conduct. The company emphasized its commitment to accountability, stating, “Our leaders are expected to set the standard.”
Byron’s Resignation
On July 19, 2025, Andy Byron resigned as CEO, with the board accepting his departure. Co-founder Pete DeJoy assumed the role of interim CEO as Astronomer began searching for a permanent replacement.
Cabot’s Exit
Kristin Cabot resigned as Chief People Officer on July 24, 2025, as confirmed by an Astronomer spokesperson. Both executives have since deactivated their LinkedIn profiles, retreating from public view.
Company Context
Astronomer, a New York-based data orchestration platform valued at over $1 billion, faced intense scrutiny following the incident. The company reiterated its focus on its DataOps mission despite the leadership upheaval.
Broader Implications
The scandal has ignited discussions on corporate governance, power dynamics, and public accountability in the digital age. Legal experts note the complexity of dismissing executives over personal conduct, citing potential undisclosed factors.