Andy Byron, CEO of DataOps firm Astronomer, has resigned following a viral kiss cam moment at a Coldplay concert, where he was seen embracing the company’s head of HR, Kristin Cabot.
In a statement shared on X, Astronomer confirmed Byron’s resignation and announced that co-founder and Chief Product Officer Pete DeJoy will serve as interim CEO while the board begins the search for a new chief executive.
“Andy Byron has tendered his resignation, and the Board of Directors has accepted,” the company posted. “The Board will begin a search for our next Chief Executive as Cofounder and Chief Product Officer Pete DeJoy continues to serve as interim CEO.”
Both Andy and Cabot are reportedly married to other partners.
The incident sparked public backlash and an internal review.
As stated previously, 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, and recently, that standard was not met.
Andy Byron has tendered his resignation, and… pic.twitter.com/aTTUhnnyVz
— Astronomer (@astronomerio) July 19, 2025
Prior to his resignation, the duo had been placed on administrative leave.
“The Board of Directors has initiated a formal investigation into this matter, and we will have additional details to share very shortly,” the company added.
Astronomer emphasized its commitment to integrity and accountability, stating: “Our leaders are expected to set the standard in both conduct and accountability, and recently, that standard was not met.”
The company also addressed widespread online speculation surrounding a smiling woman seen next to the couple in the viral video, dismissing claims that she was an Astronomer employee.
“The woman in the video is not affiliated with Astronomer. Allegations identifying her as employee Alyssa Stoddard are false. Ms. Stoddard was not at the event,” the company clarified. It further debunked reports that Byron had issued a statement after the incident, calling such reports “incorrect.”
Days ago, a viral “kiss cam” video captured Byron and Cobalt in an intimate moment during a Coldplay concert.
Frontman Chris Martin playfully called out, “Oh, look at these two,” just as Byron, with his arms around Cabot, quickly pulled away.
Cabot immediately covered her face while Byron crouched down awkwardly, attempting to duck out of view.
The frontman added, “Oh, what… either they’re having an affair or they’re just very shy,” fueling speculation and triggering a storm of online commentary.