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Sky News AU
20-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Sky News AU
Here's ‘how much worse' Astronomer CEO Andy Byron and HR chief Kristin Cabot's Coldplay scandal could be: lawyers
The Coldplay kiss cam moment that accidentally uncovered a potential cheating scandal between a married tech firm CEO and his head of human resources could be the beginning of a professional downfall for the canoodling duo — and their company, employment lawyers suggested. On Wednesday evening, Astronomer CEO Andy Byron and his human resources chief, Kristin Cabot, were singled out in a crowd of 55,000 during Coldplay's concert at Gillette Stadium near Boston during a segment in which lead singer Chris Martin would create impromptu ditties to sing with the chosen targets. Neither the married Byron nor the divorced Cabot has spoken out about the sordid scandal — which is only complicated by her standing as the head of HR, the department that would typically handle and oversee romantic relationships in the workplace. 'It's horrible because she is the head of HR! She's involved in an extramarital affair with the CEO. Basically, how much worse of an HR faux pas could you commit?' employment lawyer William Cafaro, co-counsel at Big Apple-based Buzin Law, told The Post Thursday night. 'The only way it could be worse is if the head of HR was having an affair with someone who worked for her. That's the only permutation I could think of that could be worse — but this is pretty high up there.' Byron and Cabot, who both have families of their own, were cozied up against the railing overlooking Gillette Stadium when the camera panned to them during the show. What should have been a sweet moment spun out of control as Martin quipped, 'Either they're having an affair or they're just very shy.' Online sleuths quickly identified the duo overnight, and by morning, their faces were all over social media. With Byron heading the company, any action against him, including possible removal if he violated company policies in his supposed relationship with Cabot, would be left up to the five other members on the board of directors. Her fate, though, may already be sealed. 'I would say she's just about certain to be removed from her position, because how can you have someone in HR who is having an affair with the CEO imposing or making disciplinary decisions over any other employees. That's ludicrous,' Cafaro said. Other parts are still uncertain and largely depend on Astronomer's codes of ethics and rules, including its fraternization policies, said Helen Rella, who does employment litigation for Wilk Auslander. 'As I tell my own clients, your friends today could be your enemy tomorrow. You never know when an employment issue could arise where somebody might be subject for termination or for disciplinary action,' she explained. 'And when there's an instance where somebody in a supervisory position is involved with somebody underneath them, there could potentially be a claim that they were being targeted. Not that that's true, but that's one avenue of potential exposure for the company.' It's unclear if the Coldplay outing was organized by Astronomer, which could breed further complications falling under its lawfulness as an after-work activity under Massachusetts code, Rella added. Originally published as Here's 'how much worse' Astronomer CEO Andy Byron and HR chief Kristin Cabot's Coldplay scandal could be: lawyers
The Irish Sun
18-07-2025
- Entertainment
- The Irish Sun
Coldplay kiss cam drama could spell doom for CEO Andy Byron & Kristen Cabot's careers…or even RUIN company, lawyers say
A KISS cam moment that caught a tech CEO and his HR chief canoodling at a Coldplay gig could ruin their careers, lawyers have said. Married Astronomer boss Andy Byron and his alleged mistress Kristin Cabot were 9 The moment Astronomer CEO Andy Byron and Chief People Officer Kristin Cabot appeared on Coldplay's 'kiss cam' 9 Mr Byron dived to hide behind the barrier while Cabot turned and covered her face 9 The pair rushed to hide their faces as the crowd laughed Credit: tiktok/instaagraace The panicked pair - who both have families of their own - were Their reaction to being filmed has caught the world's attention - with Neither Mr Byron nor Ms Cabot - who is understood to be divorced - has so far spoken out on the sordid event. But the embarrassing scandal may well mean the beginning of professional downfall in their respective careers, according to experts. read more on the scandal Employment lawyers have revealed the extent of damage that all of this could cause to both of them - and the company. William Cafaro, co-counsel at Big Apple-based Buzin Law, told the He added: "I would say she's just about certain to be removed from her position. "Because how can you have someone in HR who is having an affair with the CEO imposing or making disciplinary decisions over any other employees. That's ludicrous. Most read in The US Sun Helen Rella, who does employment litigation for Wilk Auslander, told the media outlet many aspects of the event would depend on the tech firm's codes of ethics and rules. She added: "As I tell my own clients, your friends today could be your enemy tomorrow. Agonising moment tech CEO Andy Byron is caught 'cheating' with his HR chief at Coldplay gig as pair cuddle on big screen "You never know when an employment issue could arise where somebody might be subject to termination or disciplinary action. 'And when there's an instance where somebody in a supervisory position is involved with somebody underneath them, there could potentially be a claim that they were being targeted. "Not that that's true, but that's one avenue of potential exposure for the company.' And as far as Mr Byron is concerned, workplace conduct experts as well as lawyers say a potential dismissal from his duties is possible if the actions violate company policies. It will be up to the other five members of the firm's executive board to decide, experts added. While it's unclear if Astronomy paid for the tickets to the concert, which Ms Rella argues could make the situation more complicated. A chorus of laughter echoed around the jam-packed stadium when - without knowing who they were - quipped: "Oh what... either they're having an affair or they're very shy." 9 A second angle of the couple at the Coldplay concert cuddling has been published Credit: X 9 Once the pair realise they are on camera they look shocked Credit: X 9 Coldplay fan Grace Springer who shot the video spoke to The US Sun Grace Springer, 28, said she never meant to cause a scandal - but stands by sharing the footage. She said: "I had no idea who the couple was. Just thought I caught an interesting reaction to the kiss cam and decided to post it. "A part of me feels bad for turning these people's lives upside down, but, play stupid games… win stupid prizes. "I hope their partners can heal from this and get a second chance at the happiness they deserve with their future still in front of them." According to Mr Byron's LinkedIn, he has been CEO of software development company Astronomer - understood to be worth more than $1.3 billion (£1 billion) - since July 2023. He called Ms Cabot a "proven leader" when she joined the company in November last year as the head of HR. The CEO gushed: "Kristin's exceptional leadership and deep expertise in talent management, employee engagement, and scaling people strategies will be critical as we continue our rapid trajectory." Ms Calbot released a similarly enthusiastic comment, saying she thought the "real magic happens when you align the people strategy with the business strategy." On her LinkedIn, she boasts: "I lead by example and win trust with employees of all levels, from CEOs to managers to assistants." One social media user commented: "Sorry for the wife but glad they're being exposed and embarrassed." The US Sun has approached Astronomer for comment. 9 Andy Byron has worked at the tech firm for more than two years Credit: linkedin 9 Kristin Cabot is Astronomer's Chief People Officer Credit: linkedin 9 Chris Martin joked that the pair were 'either having an affair or they're very shy' Credit: Getty
Scottish Sun
18-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Scottish Sun
Coldplay kiss cam drama could spell doom for CEO Andy Byron & Kristen Cabot's careers…or even RUIN company, lawyers say
Employment lawyers reveal the extent of damage that the scandal could cause to the pair and the company THE HARDEST PART Coldplay kiss cam drama could spell doom for CEO Andy Byron & Kristen Cabot's careers…or even RUIN company, lawyers say A KISS cam moment that caught a tech CEO and his HR chief canoodling at a Coldplay gig could ruin their careers, lawyers have said. Married Astronomer boss Andy Byron and his alleged mistress Kristin Cabot were caught off guard when their grinning faces flashed up on a big screen in front of 55,000 people at Boston's Gillette Stadium. Advertisement 9 The moment Astronomer CEO Andy Byron and Chief People Officer Kristin Cabot appeared on Coldplay's 'kiss cam' 9 Mr Byron dived to hide behind the barrier while Cabot turned and covered her face 9 The pair rushed to hide their faces as the crowd laughed Credit: tiktok/instaagraace The panicked pair - who both have families of their own - were seen rushing for cover after being left red-faced in the packed stadium. Their reaction to being filmed has caught the world's attention - with millions now talking about the alleged affair. Neither Mr Byron nor Ms Cabot - who is understood to be divorced - has so far spoken out on the sordid event. But the embarrassing scandal may well mean the beginning of professional downfall in their respective careers, according to experts. Advertisement Employment lawyers have revealed the extent of damage that all of this could cause to both of them - and the company. William Cafaro, co-counsel at Big Apple-based Buzin Law, told the New York Post that Ms Cabot is "certain to lose her job", calling the scandal "ludicrous". He added: "I would say she's just about certain to be removed from her position. "Because how can you have someone in HR who is having an affair with the CEO imposing or making disciplinary decisions over any other employees. That's ludicrous. Advertisement Helen Rella, who does employment litigation for Wilk Auslander, told the media outlet many aspects of the event would depend on the tech firm's codes of ethics and rules. She added: "As I tell my own clients, your friends today could be your enemy tomorrow. Agonising moment tech CEO Andy Byron is caught 'cheating' with his HR chief at Coldplay gig as pair cuddle on big screen "You never know when an employment issue could arise where somebody might be subject to termination or disciplinary action. 'And when there's an instance where somebody in a supervisory position is involved with somebody underneath them, there could potentially be a claim that they were being targeted. Advertisement "Not that that's true, but that's one avenue of potential exposure for the company.' And as far as Mr Byron is concerned, workplace conduct experts as well as lawyers say a potential dismissal from his duties is possible if the actions violate company policies. It will be up to the other five members of the firm's executive board to decide, experts added. While it's unclear if Astronomy paid for the tickets to the concert, which Ms Rella argues could make the situation more complicated. Advertisement Mr Byron and Ms Cabot's reaction appeared to show guilt and has since gone viral online with speculation the HR chief is the tech boss' "mistress". A chorus of laughter echoed around the jam-packed stadium when Viva la Vida singer Chis Martin - without knowing who they were - quipped: "Oh what... either they're having an affair or they're very shy." 9 A second angle of the couple at the Coldplay concert cuddling has been published Credit: X 9 Once the pair realise they are on camera they look shocked Credit: X Advertisement 9 Coldplay fan Grace Springer who shot the video spoke to The US Sun The US Sun interviewed the TikToker who caught the original footage and posted it online. Grace Springer, 28, said she never meant to cause a scandal - but stands by sharing the footage. She said: "I had no idea who the couple was. Just thought I caught an interesting reaction to the kiss cam and decided to post it. Advertisement "A part of me feels bad for turning these people's lives upside down, but, play stupid games… win stupid prizes. "I hope their partners can heal from this and get a second chance at the happiness they deserve with their future still in front of them." According to Mr Byron's LinkedIn, he has been CEO of software development company Astronomer - understood to be worth more than $1.3 billion (£1 billion) - since July 2023. He called Ms Cabot a "proven leader" when she joined the company in November last year as the head of HR. Advertisement The CEO gushed: "Kristin's exceptional leadership and deep expertise in talent management, employee engagement, and scaling people strategies will be critical as we continue our rapid trajectory." Ms Calbot released a similarly enthusiastic comment, saying she thought the "real magic happens when you align the people strategy with the business strategy." On her LinkedIn, she boasts: "I lead by example and win trust with employees of all levels, from CEOs to managers to assistants." One social media user commented: "Sorry for the wife but glad they're being exposed and embarrassed." Advertisement The US Sun has approached Astronomer for comment. 9 Andy Byron has worked at the tech firm for more than two years Credit: linkedin 9 Kristin Cabot is Astronomer's Chief People Officer Credit: linkedin 9 Chris Martin joked that the pair were 'either having an affair or they're very shy' Credit: Getty Advertisement
New York Post
18-07-2025
- Entertainment
- New York Post
Here's ‘how much worse' Astronomer CEO Andy Byron and HR chief Kristin Cabot's Coldplay scandal could be: lawyers
The Coldplay kiss cam moment that accidentally uncovered a potential cheating scandal between a married tech firm CEO and his head of human resources could be the beginning of a professional downfall for the canoodling duo — and their company, employment lawyers suggested. On Wednesday evening, Astronomer CEO Andy Byron and his human resources chief Kristin Cabot were singled out in a crowd of 55,000 during Coldplay's concert at Gillette Stadium near Boston during a segment in which lead singer Chris Martin would create impromptu ditties to sing with the chosen targets. Neither the married Byron nor the divorced Cabot have spoken out about the sordid scandal — which is only complicated by her standing as the head of HR, the department that would typically handle and oversee romantic relationships in the workplace. Advertisement 5 Astronomer CEO Andy Byron and the company's head of HR, Kristin Cabot, were caught on camera snuggled up against the railing at a Coldplay concert. Grace Springer via Storyful 'It's horrible because she is the head of HR! She's involved in an extramarital affair with the CEO. Basically, how much worse of an HR faux pas could you commit?' employment lawyer William Cafaro, co-counsel at Big Apple-based Buzin Law, told The Post Thursday night. 'The only way it could be worse is if the head of HR was having an affair with someone who worked for her. That's the only permutation I could think of that could be worse — but this is pretty high up there.' Advertisement 5 Employment lawyer William Cafaro described the incident as 'horrible.' William Cafaro/LinkedIn Byron and Cabot, who both have families of their own, were cozied up against the railing overlooking Gillette Stadium when the camera panned to them during the show. What should have been a sweet moment spun out of control after Martin quipped, 'Either they're having an affair or they're just very shy.' Online sleuths quickly identified the duo overnight, and by morning, their faces were all over social media. Advertisement 5 Byron is married, and Cabot's divorce was finalized in 2022. Bain Capital Ventures With Byron heading the company, any action against him, including possible removal if he violated company policies in his supposed relationship with Cabot, would be left up to the five other members on the Board of Directors. Her fate, though, may already be sealed. 5 Cabot, the head of HR, previously gloated about her ability to gain 'trust' in the workplace. LinkedIn/Kristin Cabot Advertisement 'I would say she's just about certain to be removed from her position, because how can you have someone in HR who is having an affair with the CEO imposing or making disciplinary decisions over any other employees. That's ludicrous,' Cafaro said. Other parts are still uncertain and largely depend on Astronomer's codes of ethics and rules, including its fraternization policies, said Helen Rella, who does employment litigation for Wilk Auslander. 5 Employment litigator Helen Rella suggested Cabot could be removed from her position as head of HR. Helen Rella/LinkedIn 'As I tell my own clients, your friends today could be your enemy tomorrow. You never know when an employment issue could arise where somebody might be subject for termination or for disciplinary action,' she explained. 'And when there's an instance where somebody in a supervisory position is involved with somebody underneath them, there could potentially be a claim that they were being targeted. Not that that's true, but that's one avenue of potential exposure for the company.' It's unclear if the Coldplay outing was organized by Astronomer, which could breed further complications falling under its lawfulness as an after-work activity under Massachusetts code, Rella added.
New York Post
06-07-2025
- Business
- New York Post
NYC voters torn over Zohran Mamdani's big plans to hike taxes on wealthy, corporations: poll
Democratic mayoral nominee Zohran Mamdani's plans to hike taxes on corporations and wealthy New Yorkers has general election voters split, a new poll showed. Some 48% of voters were in favor of increasing the corporate tax on Big Apple-based companies to pay for free public transit and affordable housing — while 42% were in favor of upping taxes on the five boroughs' wealthiest residents, according to the poll by Honan Strategy Group. But support for corporate taxes plunged to 36% when voters were asked if they'd support a higher corporate tax if it meant chasing businesses out of Gotham. 4 New Yorkers are split on Democratic mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani's plans to raise taxes on the rich and corporations, according to a new poll. AFP via Getty Images 'Should the city consider increasing the corporate tax for NYC-based companies to finance affordable housing and free public transit?' participants were asked initially. While 48% said yes, 42% said no, according to the poll. The poll also asked, 'Would you support free public buses if funded by a wealth tax?' Only 42% said yes, while 47% were opposed and 11% were unsure, the poll found. Slightly more than half — 53% — backed Mamdani's proposal for city-run grocery stores aimed at lowering food prices, even if that requires moderate tax increases on high earners, according to the poll. But 35% were opposed to the government-run stores while another 12% said they were unsure, the poll said. 4 A Mamdani supporter holding a sign calling him a 'champion' for working people at a rally on July 2, 2025. Photo by Michael M. Santiago/Getty Images Meanwhile, 51% supported a rent-freeze on rent-stabilized apartments even if it meant increased taxes on millionaires, while 28% opposed the proposal and 20% are unsure, according to the poll. Mamdani has proposed a new 2% tax on millionaires, and shifting the property tax burden to wealthier, 'whiter' neighborhoods. But voters are divided when asked what is the single most important issue facing today: 21% cite housing affordability, while another 21% say crime and violence. Another 14% of respondents cited Donald Trump, 8% said corruption and 7% said quality-of-life issues. As the Democratic nominee, Mamdani is considered the frontrunner in the mayor's race in deeply blue New York. He'll be facing incumbent Eric Adams and ex-Gov. Andrew Cuomo — both running on independent ballot lines — as well as Republican nominee Curtis Sliwa and independent Jim Walden. 'While there is consensus about some of the financial burdens that New Yorkers are feeling, opinions are more mixed and divided about some of the proposed policy solutions,' pollster Bradley Honan said. Mamdani's tax-the-rich proposals that would require approval in Albany and Gov. Kathy Hochul has so far seemed unwilling to support the measures. Still, voters overwhelmingly agree that the Big Apple is too expensive a place to live, according to the survey. For example, 93% of respondents said the city is having an affordability crisis and 80% agreed with the statement that New York City is increasingly only affordable for the rich people of Manhattan. 4 Mamdani supporters with 'Freeze the Rent' signs in Coney Island on June 21, 2025. Michael Nagle The poll also found that 72% agree their family is struggling to achieve the American Dream despite their hard work and effort and 61% agree that their personal income has stagnated and are not sure whether they can get ahead or not, while 56% say they are struggling every month to pay their rent/mortgage. Nearly two-thirds of voters said inflation had caused them moderate or significant hardship in the past year, while 25% said no hardship and 10% weren't unsure. Many voters are concerned about the city's condition. 4 The Post's cover on Mamdani's plan to give 'white neighborhoods' higher property taxes. Only 15% believe that the city is heading in the right direction, while 53% feel it is on the wrong track and 32% said they didn't know. The mobile phone text survey of 817 likely voters was taken June 25-26 — right after Mamdani's primary victory. It has a margin of error of +/-3.42%.
