A U.S. tech CEO has stepped down after a video from a Coldplay concert went viral, showing him embracing a female colleague—raising questions about workplace conduct and prompting an internal review.
Andy Byron, CEO of New York-based data software company Astronomer, resigned following the widespread circulation of a video clip that captured him and Kristin Cabot, the company’s Chief People Officer, hugging during a concert in Foxborough, Massachusetts. As the pair appeared on the venue’s big screen, they quickly ducked and attempted to hide, drawing attention online.
In a statement released Saturday, Astronomer said:
“Andy Byron has tendered his resignation, and the Board of Directors has accepted. Our leaders are expected to uphold the standards of conduct and accountability that define our company. Recently, that standard was not met.”
The company added that an internal search is underway for a new CEO, with the current Chief Product Officer stepping in as interim leader.
The viral moment, which unfolded during a Wednesday night show, drew commentary from Coldplay’s frontman Chris Martin, who joked:
“Either they’re having an affair, or they’re just very shy.”
While U.S. media identified the individuals in the clip as Byron and Cabot, the BBC has not independently verified their identities.
Shortly after the video gained traction, Astronomer placed Byron on leave and launched an internal investigation into the nature of the relationship. The incident has reignited discussions about professional boundaries and accountability in the workplace.
