Andy Byron, CEO of New York-based tech company Astronomer, has stepped down following a viral video that triggered intense online speculation about an alleged workplace affair involving the company’s leadership.
The clip, filmed during a Coldplay concert in Foxborough, Massachusetts, showed a man and woman embracing affectionately in the crowd.
Their startled expressions upon being featured on the jumbotron caught viewers’ attention, especially after lead singer Chris Martin jokingly remarked, “Uh-oh, what? Either they’re having an affair or they’re just very shy.
”Internet sleuths quickly identified the pair as Byron and Kristin Cabot, Astronomer’s Chief People Officer.
The revelation sparked a storm of memes, social commentary, and backlash, largely centered on the irony of a top HR executive potentially being involved in an inappropriate workplace relationship.In a statement posted on LinkedIn,
Astronomer confirmed Byron’s resignation, stating:
“Our leaders are expected to set the standard in both conduct and accountability, and recently, that standard was not met.
”The company had previously announced an internal investigation into the incident.The viral video, which racked up millions of views across TikTok and other platforms, even inspired parodies — including one by the Philadelphia Phillies’ mascots during a recent baseball game.
Amid the frenzy, a fake apology letter — allegedly from Byron — began circulating online, only to be debunked and traced back to a parody account.
As of now, neither Byron nor Cabot has issued a public statement regarding the incident.
