Astronomer, a Cincinnati-based data analytics firm, has placed its CEO Andy Byron on leave following the circulation of a viral ‘kiss cam’ video from a Coldplay concert, which ignited widespread speculation about a possible affair with the company’s HR chief, Kristin Cabot.
In response to the incident, Astronomer issued a public statement confirming that its Board of Directors has launched an internal investigation into the matter. The company emphasized that while the investigation is ongoing, neither executive has been terminated, and both remain part of the organization.
“Cofounder and Chief Product Officer Pete DeJoy is currently serving as interim CEO, given that Andy Byron has been placed on leave… We will share more details as appropriate in the coming days,” a spokesperson told PEOPLE magazine.
🔍 Company Statement on LinkedIn:
In a statement posted Friday on LinkedIn, Astronomer wrote:
“Astronomer is committed to the values and culture that have guided us since our founding. Our leaders are expected to set the standard in both conduct and accountability.”
The company also confirmed the internal probe, saying:
“The Board of Directors has initiated a formal investigation into this matter and we will have additional details to share very shortly.”
To address speculation about other employees, the firm clarified:
“Alyssa Stoddard was not at the event and no other employees were in the video. Andy Byron has not put out any statement, reports saying otherwise are all incorrect.”
🎥 What Happened in the ‘Kiss Cam’ Video?
The controversy began when a video from Coldplay’s concert at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts, went viral online. The clip shows a man and woman featured on the ‘kiss cam’, only to awkwardly cover their faces and duck away—prompting lead singer Chris Martin to joke onstage:
“Either they’re having an affair or they’re just very shy.”
The moment instantly spread across social media platforms, with online users speculating about the identities of the couple. Soon after, internet sleuths linked the man in the video to Andy Byron, CEO of Astronomer. This identification has not been officially confirmed by the company.
While the investigation continues, Astronomer has maintained that it is committed to transparency, leadership accountability, and a respectful workplace culture.