The CEO of Astronomer, a prominent U.S.-based tech firm, has resigned following public backlash over a viral video that called into question professional boundaries within the company's leadership.

Andy Byron, who had been at the helm of Astronomer during a period of rapid growth in the data technology space, stepped down on Saturday after footage from a Coldplay concert ignited scrutiny over his conduct.

The video, taken during the band’s July 16 performance at Gillette Stadium in Boston, Massachusetts, showed Byron in an intimate moment with Kristin Cabot, Astronomer’s Chief People Officer.

The two were unexpectedly featured on the stadium’s "kiss cam" segment during the concert. The Jumbotron captured Byron and Cabot sharing a warm embrace one that many viewers interpreted as romantic.

Their reaction upon noticing they were on the big screen was swift and visibly awkward: both pulled away and tried to shield themselves from further attention.

Coldplay frontman Chris Martin, noticing the incident on the screen, made a lighthearted quip to the crowd: “Oh, what? Either they’re having an affair or they’re just very shy.”

While the moment may have seemed innocuous to some, its ripple effects were immediate. Within hours, social media was abuzz with speculation about the nature of Byron and Cabot’s relationship, and whether it crossed ethical lines in a corporate setting.

By Saturday morning, Astronomer issued a formal statement confirming Byron’s resignation. The company said its leadership is expected to “uphold the highest standards of conduct, professionalism, and accountability.” It went on to note that “recent events did not align with these core values.”

The company did not comment on the employment status of Cabot, but sources within Astronomer said an internal review is being conducted to examine any potential violations of company policy.

Astronomer, known for its work in data pipeline management and orchestration, has earned a reputation as one of the fastest-rising tech firms in the U.S.

Byron’s sudden departure comes at a sensitive time for the company, which is preparing for a new funding round and a broader global expansion strategy.

His resignation underscores the growing pressure on corporate leaders to maintain personal discretion and avoid situations that may compromise the integrity of their roles even outside the boardroom