Back Hug Caught at Concert Sparks Uproar... Wife Removes Husband's Name from Social Media, Company Launches Internal Investigation

CEO Takes Leave Amid Personal Relationship Controversy
CEO's Wife Deactivates Social Media Account

U.S. data company Astronomer is currently conducting an internal investigation into recent allegations of extramarital affairs involving its executives.

Middle-aged couple caught on Coldplay concert kiss cam. TikTok.

Through its official social media channels, Astronomer stated, "We value the principles and culture we have upheld since our founding, and our leaders must set an example in both conduct and accountability." The company added, "The board of directors has launched a formal investigation into the matter." Astronomer also announced, "With CEO Andy Byron on leave, co-founder and Chief Product Officer Pete DeJoy is serving as interim CEO, and we will provide additional information soon."

The controversy began on July 16, during a Coldplay concert held in Boston, Massachusetts, when Astronomer CEO Andy Byron and Chief People Officer Christine Cabot were captured on the stage's big screen. The two were seen in a back hug, and when Cabot realized she was being shown, she covered her face in embarrassment, while Byron bent down. The video quickly spread on TikTok and X (formerly Twitter), fueling the controversy. Chris Martin, Coldplay's lead vocalist who was on stage at the time, commented, "Either they're having an affair or they're extremely shy," which drew laughter among fans.

Astronomer is a private data infrastructure startup that was valued at over $1 billion in 2022. After recently relocating its headquarters to New York, the company's valuation has risen to $1.3 billion. On the company's website, photos of both Cabot and Byron, who are at the center of the controversy, are displayed together.

Byron's wife drew attention after the video was released by removing her husband's name from her social media profile and deactivating her account. Cabot began divorce proceedings in 2018, and her divorce was finalized in 2022, but it is unknown whether she has remarried.

Notably, in November 2023, Byron recruited Cabot as an executive, stating, "Christine's outstanding leadership, talent management skills, and her ability to expand employee engagement and workforce strategy are vital to the company's growth." He also praised her as a "proven leader," adding, "Her passion for creating a diverse and collaborative work environment is a perfect fit for the company."

Cabot also expressed her confidence on her LinkedIn profile, stating, "I have earned the deep trust of CEO Andy and the entire leadership team, as well as our employees."