
For the first time, Kristin Cabot, the former CEO of technology company Astronomer, has spoken publicly about the moment that changed her life forever: a hug caught on camera during a Coldplay concert in Boston.
In July, Cabot was caught on “kisscam” cuddling with Andy Byron, her boss, who was believed to be married at the time. Chris Martin’s sarcastic comment — “They’re either having an affair, or they’re just really shy” — and a 16-second video posted to TikTok turned the moment into a global sensation with over 150 million views.
Cabot says the video caused panic, shame and serious consequences for her and her family. She points out that she and Byron were both amicably separated from their respective partners and that the hug was the first show of affection between them.
“It all happened in an instant,” she says, adding that she is not a public figure and that her life was unfairly reduced to a viral clip. The online reaction turned into a “witch hunt,” with endless accusations, insults and memes.
After the incident, Byron resigned, while Cabot later left the company. Although an investigation found no evidence of an affair, the public damage was irreversible. The hardest part, she said, was dealing with the children, who were deeply affected emotionally by the incident.
Today, Cabot says the reason she speaks out is not for fame, but to raise awareness about the dangers of digital crowds. She warns that behind every viral video there are real lives, families and children who suffer the consequences.
“We need to be better to each other,” she concludes. “Because one moment online can ruin an entire life.”
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