Can Former Astronomer CEO Andy Byron Sue Coldplay Over Kiss Cam Moment? Legal Experts Weigh In

Last Updated:July 24, 2025, 23:25 IST

Legal experts are now weighing in on whether Bryon has any grounds for a lawsuit against Coldplay or the event organisers.

Reports indicate that Bryon is exploring legal action for “emotional distress” and “invasion of privacy”

Andy Bryon, the former CEO of the data start-up Astronomer, recently found himself at the centre of an unexpected controversy—one that has affected both his professional and personal life. The incident, which unfolded at a Coldplay concert on July 16 at Gillette Stadium in Massachusetts, has gone viral, sparking speculation and potential legal drama.

During the concert, Bryon was caught on the venue’s kiss cam sharing what appeared to be a romantic moment with Kristin Cabot, Astronomer’s Chief People Officer. The situation escalated when Coldplay’s lead singer, Chris Martin, commented mid-performance, saying, “Either they’re having an affair or they’re just very shy." Immediately after the camera focused on them, Bryon sat down quickly while Cabot turned away to hide her face. The clip spread rapidly online, and within days, Astronomer replaced Bryon as CEO while placing Cabot on leave.

Legal experts are now weighing in on whether Bryon has any grounds for a lawsuit against Coldplay or the event organisers. In an interview with Page Six, attorney Camron Dowlatshahi of MSD Lawyers suggested that while a defamation claim could be considered, Bryon has to be “creative" with his claims.

“If we’re getting creative, a possible claim would be for defamation, specifically as it relates to Chris Martin characterising the two as having an ‘affair,’" Dowlatshahi said. However, Bryon would need to prove the statement was false and damaging.

Another exclusive report by Rob Shuter citing inside sources suggests that Bryon is exploring legal action for “emotional distress" and “invasion of privacy," adding that Bryon “didn’t consent to being filmed or publicly humiliated." The source also stated, “He thinks Coldplay made him a meme."

However, other legal professionals are sceptical. Ray Seilie, an attorney with Kinsella Holley Iser Kump Steinsapir LLP, pointed out that there is “no expectation of privacy in a public arena," especially considering most concert tickets come with broad waivers regarding filming and publicity.

While Coldplay is yet to respond to any of the reports about defamation suit, sources close to the band say Martin “laughed out loud" at the idea of being sued over, as per Shuter’s report.

Boston, Massachusetts, USA

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