5 Things You Never Knew About Andy Byron, the CEO Behind “Coldplaygate”
Andy Byron, CEO of data infrastructure firm Astronomer, recently became an internet sensation after a viral moment at a Coldplay concert.
But beyond the headlines, there’s more to this tech executive than meets the eye.
Here are five surprising facts you probably didn’t know.
1. He’s a seasoned tech veteran
Byron has spent over two decades in enterprise software, holding leadership roles at BladeLogic, BMC Software, Cybereason, Lacework, and Fuze. He became CEO of Astronomer in 2023 and helped the company achieve over 200% growth in its Astro platform.
2. He personally recruited Kristin Cabot
In November 2024, Byron announced the hiring of Kristin Cabot as Astronomer’s Chief People Officer. He praised her leadership and people strategy skills—months before the two were caught on the Coldplay kiss cam, sparking affair rumors.
3. He went viral for ducking the kiss cam
During Coldplay’s July 2025 concert in Massachusetts, Byron was seen embracing Cabot when the kiss cam landed on them. He quickly ducked out of frame while Cabot covered her face, prompting Coldplay’s Chris Martin to joke, “Either they’re having an affair or they’re very shy!”.
4. His wife deleted her social media
Following the viral incident, Byron’s wife, Megan Kerrigan Byron, deleted her Facebook and Instagram accounts. She also removed “Byron” from her name on Facebook before deactivating it.
5. He erased his digital footprint
Amid the backlash, Byron deleted his LinkedIn profile, and Astronomer has remained silent on the controversy. The company’s cofounder even clarified he’s no longer involved, distancing himself from the unfolding drama.
