
ESPN anchors go too far - shocking on-air stunt on Astronomer CEO Andy Byron and Kristin Cabot sparks outrage
ESPN
's "SportsCenter" hosts attempted to capitalize on the viral wave, but may have gone too far.
Explore courses from Top Institutes in
Select a Course Category
The two ESPN anchors drew criticism for recreating a viral concert kiss-cam moment between
Astronomer CEO
Andy Byron and HR Head
Kristin Cabot
.
Why did this moment from a concert end up on ESPN?
by Taboola
by Taboola
Sponsored Links
Sponsored Links
Promoted Links
Promoted Links
You May Like
This might be relevant for you
adobe.com
Undo
A middle-aged couple appeared to be having an intimate moment on the kiss cam at Coldplay's Boston show on Wednesday night. But as soon as they became aware that they were the center of attention, they hurried apart. That response somewhat surprised Chris Martin, the singer of Coldplay. He concluded, "Either they're having an affair or they're just very shy."
ALSO READ:
Astronomer finally speaks out, says CEO Andy Byron's viral Coldplay Concert apology is fake. See all revelations made by AI firm
Live Events
The viral exchange from the Coldplay concert was recreated by "SportsCenter" hosts Gary Striewski and Randy Scott on Friday morning.
Many people found the lighthearted segment inappropriate and off-brand, sparking an online debate. While some viewers laughed it off, others chastised ESPN for straying from sports coverage, as per a report by The Spun.
SportsCenter began today's broadcast by recreating the viral cheating CEO from the Coldplay concert
pic.twitter.com/mNjgC4Rm85
— FearBuck (@FearedBuck)
July 18, 2025
Some people thought Striewski and Scott's stunt was fantastic. But for others, it was extremely cheesy.
"Recycling jokes that have already been beaten to death with no hint of originality? Sounds pretty on brand for ESPN," a fan said.
"Notice how corporations always ruin funny trends," said another fan.
"This is too much," expressed a third fan. "Trying to be relevant...that story didn't have a thing to do with sports but here they are."
Another fan stated, "There was a reason why I stopped watching SportsCenter."
It's not surprising that Striewski and Scott, two of the most gregarious "SportsCenter" hosts, would make fun of this circumstance. It's worth noting that other ESPN members have also voiced their opinions about this Coldplay disaster, as per a report by The Spun.
ALSO READ:
Kristin Cabot and Kenneth C. Thornby Divorce: Here's big revelation about couple's marital status and children
Was the ESPN stunt too much?
Striewski and Scott are known for their charm and sense of humor, but some people thought the joke was unfair to people who didn't want to be in the public eye. People who don't like it say that turning what could have been a private or innocent moment into something for the network to talk about goes too far, especially since the people involved haven't talked about it themselves.
FAQs
Who was in the viral Coldplay kiss-cam video?
Although not officially confirmed, many people believe the couple was Astronomer CEO
Andy Byron
and his colleague Kristin Cabot.
Why are ESPN's anchors being criticized?
ESPN's Gary Striewski and Randy Scott recreated the viral moment on air, drawing criticism for being cringeworthy, unoriginal, and unrelated to sports.

Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles


Time of India
an hour ago
- Time of India
Ganpati mandals rejoice as HC permits idol immersion in sea
Mumbai: Ganpati mandals are relieved at Thursday's Bombay High Court order permitting PoP idols over 6 ft tall to be immersed in the sea. They had been wary of organising full fledged celebrations in the absence of proper permissions. Now that the curbs have been lifted they are going ahead full steam with their usual tall moortis, decoration and fundraising. Ankur Lad, spokesperson for Khetwadi Cha Vighnaharta of Girgaum, said artificial tanks were not suited to tall moortis. "PoP idols of 20-25 ft contain metal and iron rods and frames inside for support. In fact even clay idols of that height, like Girgaon Cha Raja, have wood inside. Such idols won't dissolve at all, because how deep can you make artificial ponds," he reasoned. Even as the tug of war over PoP was under way, some mandals voluntarily switched to eco-friendly raw material. Rajendra Sawant, secretary of the 77-year-old Ambedkar Nagar mandal in Worli, said, "Our 10 ft idol was usually made of PoP. But after the earlier ban and concerns over environment safety we used a clay idol. This year it is carved from tissue paper. The decision had to be made quickly as we were sceptical about waiting for the decision over PoP immersion. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Private Browsers That Keep You Safe vividtrendlab Undo " You Can Also Check: Mumbai AQI | Weather in Mumbai | Bank Holidays in Mumbai | Public Holidays in Mumbai Abhinay Hate of Kandivali Cha Vighnaharta said their idol is 14 ft tall. "We too were tense about the ban even though we immerse our idol in a pond in any case. But this time there is no confirmation yet for the protocol to be followed at the pond where we usually go. The HC order is a big relief, though." The prominent Chandanwadi Ganeshotsav mandal near Marine Lines hosts a 26 ft tall moorti. Secretary Prathamesh Sakpal said, "Thousands of Ganpati idols are immersed every year amid processions that include lakhs of people. It would be problematic if there was an interruption." In Andheri West, the Saat Bangla Cha Raja stands 22 ft tall. Vice president Amith Kadam said, "Immersion of tall idols beyond 6 ft would have been impossible to execute in artificial tanks. Thanks to the HC order we can now continue our preparations with ease." Santosh Narkar, newly elected chairman of Khetwadi Cha Raja in Girgaum said their idol is 31 ft tall. "Our moortikar Aniket Shevale has carved an outstanding idol this year."


Time of India
an hour ago
- Time of India
NFL coach Sean McVay spotted enjoying secret yacht trip with wife Veronika Khomyn in France
NFL coach Sean McVay spotted enjoying secret yacht trip with wife Veronika Khomyn in France (Image via Getty) Sean McVay drew attention this week when fans spotted him with his wife on a sunny boat trip overseas. The Los Angeles Rams head coach took time off after a long season. He chose to rest and recharge before ramping up work for his team. News of this getaway spread online. Word traveled fast online. Followers shared photos and comments about this low-key break. Rumors say he is having fun in style. The coach looked happy and calm during daylight with his spouse. More on where, when and how below. Sean McVay and Veronika Khomyn aboard yacht in Saint-Tropez On June 27, 2025, fans saw Sean McVay and his wife, Veronika Khomyn, on a private yacht in Saint-Tropez, France. They floated near the bright blue sea under a clear sky. The boat had white sails and looked very modern. McVay wore simple shorts and dark sunglasses. Veronika Khomyn wore a pink swimsuit and smiled as she looked out over the water. They stood at the front of the yacht and waved at fans who took photos. McVay laughed when Khomyn pointed to a group of boats nearby. The couple stayed on deck all afternoon and then had dinner at a small port town on the French Riviera. Sean McVay enjoys offseason rest before 2025 training camp Sean McVay will return to work on July 24, 2025, as Loyola Marymount University in Los Angeles starts the Rams' 2025 training camp. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Sukamaju: Unsold Sofas May Be at Bargain Prices (Prices May Surprise You) Sofas | Search Ads Search Now Undo He decided to unwind with Veronika Khomyn, his wife, before that day. Being on the water clears his mind and sparks new ideas, according to the 39-year-old trainer in a previous interview. Also Read: Taylor Swift And Travis Kelce Baby Name Reveal In Missouri Sparks A Viral Fan Frenzy Fans wish this rest will revitalize him. The team will go through drills, study plays, and develop as a unit during camp. McVay is aiming for more success this year after leading the Rams to a Super Bowl triumph in 2021. Veronika Khomyn went with him on this trip and publicly showed her support by uploading a few photos. This calm with family helps McVay gather strength and serenity before a hectic on and off the field season. FAQs 1. Where was Sean McVay spotted on vacation with his wife Veronika Khomyn? Sean McVay and his wife were seen relaxing on a yacht in Saint-Tropez, France. 2. When did Sean McVay go on his Saint-Tropez vacation? Sean McVay was spotted vacationing in Saint-Tropez on July 27, 2025. 3. Is Los Angeles Rams coach Sean McVay back before training camp? Yes, Sean McVay is expected to return before the Rams' training camp starts on July 24, 2025. For real-time updates, scores, and highlights, follow our live coverage of the India vs England Test match here. Catch Rani Rampal's inspiring story on Game On, Episode 4. Watch Here!


Time of India
an hour ago
- Time of India
Suniel Shetty reveals why filming Border's 'suhaagraat' song was unforgettable: 'Athiya had a fever...'
Suniel Shetty shared a memorable experience shooting 'To Chalun' from Border, revealing initial nervousness about the song's sensitive nature. A passing MIG jet inspired a key scene, symbolizing duty above all. Adding to the emotional intensity, Shetty was deeply concerned about his young daughter Athiya's high fever, ensuring her safe return to Mumbai amidst a storm while filming the song. Suniel Shetty recently opened up about one of the most memorable moments of his film career—shooting the romantic track To Chalun from Border (1997). While the film is known for its patriotic intensity, Shetty revealed that the emotional depth of this particular song, coupled with a personal crisis involving his young daughter Athiya, has etched it in his memory forever. Nervous About Shooting a 'Suhaagraat' Song While speaking on a podcast with Pinkvilla, Suniel shared that he was initially nervous about filming the 'suhaagraat' song To Chalun in Border (1997). However, once director JP Dutta narrated the track to him, Shetty knew only Dutta could handle it with such sensitivity. He called it the most memorable shoot of his career, praising the way it was beautifully filmed. Shetty also recalled a key moment during the shoot of To Chalun when the team was unsure how to portray the soldier's emotional farewell to his wife. As they discussed the scene, a MIG fighter jet flew overhead. That powerful visual gave director JP Dutta the clarity he needed, and he immediately knew how to frame the shot, Shetty revealed. Patriotism at the Core of the Scene Explaining how the scene unfolded, Suniel said that as his character looks up at the sky, the sound of the MIG symbolizes the ever-present call of duty. The soldier, reminded of his responsibilities, marches forward without looking back—reinforcing Border's central message that the nation comes above everything else. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Elegant New Scooters For Seniors In 2024: The Prices May Surprise You Mobility Scooter | Search Ads Learn More Undo A Father's Worry Behind the Scenes He also recalled a personal moment that made the shoot even more unforgettable. His daughter Athiya, who was just three years old at the time, had a high fever the same night the song was being filmed. Concerned for her wellbeing, Suniel said he had to send her back to Mumbai from Delhi due to an incoming storm. Throughout the shoot, he kept calling to check if she had reached safely and was receiving proper care. He admitted he'll never forget that stressful night until he got confirmation from his wife Mana that Athiya was fine and under a doctor's care.