Andy Byron, CEO of Astronomer, a firm focused on data services, is at the heart of a viral sensation following a video of him hugging a colleague at a Coldplay concert.
The footage, captured on the event’s jumbotron, quickly gained traction online. In it, Byron is shown dropping to the floor as the woman next to him — Kristin Cabot, Astronomer’s Chief People Officer — suddenly turns away, attempting to conceal her face.
As the video spread on social media, netizens were relentless: brands created memes, betting sites skyrocketed in popularity, and online commentators were in full swing. The scenario intensified when a supposed apology from Byron began circulating online. But was it genuine?
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Did he issue an apology?
The viral statement was shared by an X (formerly Twitter) user named Peter Enis, who claimed to have ties with CBS News.
However, a search by Khaleej Times on LinkedIn and the CBS News site found no such individual employed there.
In reality, the X account that shared the statement is clearly marked as a parody — indicating the apology was fabricated.
Check out the viral tweet below:
The fake apology caused an uproar online. Here’s what it said:
“I want to acknowledge the moment circulating online and the disappointment it has caused.
“What should have been a night of music and joy turned into a personal mistake played out publicly. I sincerely apologize to my wife, family, and the Astronomer team. You deserve better from me as a partner, father, and leader.
“This isn’t who I aspire to be or how I want to represent the company I helped build. I’m taking time to reflect, take responsibility, and determine the next steps personally and professionally. I ask for privacy as I go through this process.
“I also want to express concern that what should have been a private moment became public without my consent. I respect artists and entertainers, but I hope we all consider the impact of turning someone else’s life into a spectacle.
“As a friend once sang: ‘Lights will guide you home, and ignite your bones, and I will try to fix you.'”
While the fake statement also drew criticism, as many believed Byron was trying to downplay the situation by calling it a “private” moment.
Not just one statement
Adding to the viral frenzy, a second fake statement is circulating online. A fabricated screengrab appears to show the official Astronomer account posting this message:
“Statement from our CEO Andy Byron:
‘Let me start by apologizing to my family, my wife, and our amazing employees. My behavior is inexcusable, and the shame I’m experiencing is deserved. I tried to hide my actions, but the truth has come out. I am a Coldplay fan. And not just of the first two albums. I also enjoy their recent work. I’m going to take some time to think about my future, please respect our family’s privacy at this time.'”
Though the post looks authentic initially, no such statement was published on the company’s verified social media channels. The tone and content, especially the Coldplay reference, clearly indicate the statement is a fake.
As of now, Byron has not made any official public comment about the viral video or the bogus apologies.
