Astronomer Addresses CEO Andy Byron’s ‘Apology’ Amid Coldplay Concert Kiss-Cam Scandal
The organization at the heart of a Coldplay “kiss cam” controversy that has garnered significant attention has spoken out, refuting a viral message attributed to its CEO.
During the band’s performance at Gillette Stadium in Boston on Wednesday evening, footage featuring a kiss cam went viral, showcasing Astronomer CEO Andy Byron in an intimate moment with Kristin Cabot, the head of HR for the company. The pair quickly attempted to shield their faces from the camera.
Both Byron and Cabot are married to other individuals, leading Coldplay’s lead singer Chris Martin to humorously suggest during the show that they might be “having an affair.”
The clip gained immense traction online, resulting in over 520,000 posts about it on X since Wednesday, with Byron becoming Australia’s most searched individual on Google by Friday.
An apology purportedly from the CEO emerged online on Thursday, sparking widespread discussion across social media platforms.
“I want to acknowledge the moment that has been circulating online and recognize the disappointment it has caused. What was intended as an enjoyable night of music turned into a deeply personal error played out publicly,” read the statement.
“I sincerely apologize to my wife, my family, and my team at Astronomer—you all deserve better from me as a partner, father, and leader.”
The statement further criticized Coldplay for broadcasting audience members on the jumbotron during the concert before concluding with a reference to one of their most popular songs.
“It is also troubling that what should have remained a private moment became public without my consent… I hold respect for artists and entertainers but hope we can consider more carefully how turning someone’s life into entertainment impacts them.”
“As a friend once sang, ‘Lights will guide you home, and ignite your bones; I will try to fix you.’”
However, just hours after this apology circulated on X, it was disclosed that the statement was fabricated.
Taylor Jones, Astronomer’s Director of Communications, confirmed to Men’s Journal that this apology “is not genuine.”
The origins of this statement can be traced back to an X account belonging to someone claiming to be CBS journalist Peter Enis.
Mr. Enis’ profile is marked as a parody account with his bio containing references intended as humorous puns.
After creating confusion among users on social media and various news outlets alike, he later posted clarification confirming that the statement was indeed fabricated by him.
“Well folks, I’ve been caught—the report is fake,” he stated after acknowledging its falsity.
“Thank you to everyone who made today so entertaining; I’m glad you appreciated the inclusion of that Fix You lyric—I debated whether or not to add it.”
A second false declaration also circulated online appearing as if it came from Astronomer’s official social media account; however, this one had a more satirical tone compared to the first.
“I tried to conceal my actions but now the truth is out—I’m actually a fan of Coldplay… not just their earlier albums; I enjoy their newer work too,” read this message.
“I will take some time for reflection regarding my future—please respect our family’s privacy during this period.”
Astronomer’s media team confirmed that this statement was also untrue.
Neither Andy Byron nor Kristin Cabot has issued any official comments concerning this viral incident.
