Pete DeJoy, now serving as interim CEO of Astronomer, has spoken publicly for the first time since the company’s leadership shift that followed the resignation of Andy Byron.
Byron stepped down after a kiss cam video from a Coldplay concert circulated widely on social media. The footage showed him embracing Kristin Cabot, Astronomer’s head of HR. Both appeared to react quickly once they realized they were being filmed. The moment raised questions not just because of their roles, but because both individuals are reportedly married.
In a LinkedIn post published Monday, DeJoy acknowledged the unexpected media attention the company has received.
“The events of the past few days have received a level of media attention that few companies—let alone startups in our small corner of the data and AI world—ever encounter,” he wrote.
He said the spotlight had felt “unusual and surreal” but added that the company would focus on its work and its mission.
“I would never have wished for it to happen like this,” he added, “but Astronomer is now a household name.”
DeJoy delivered a message of resilience to his team. Without naming Byron or Cabot, he referenced the company’s history of enduring tough moments, saying, “This business has tested us time and time again, and each time we’ve emerged stronger.”
He reminded everyone that this strength comes from their core principles—solving problems, putting in the hours, and doing things right. This, he argued, is why their clients depend on them for critical projects. “The mission,” DeJoy concluded, “is bigger than any one moment.”
Also Read | Kristin Cabot Still Employed at Astronomer After Coldplay Kiss Cam Scandal
Astronomer issued a formal statement on Friday stating that Byron had been placed on leave and that DeJoy had stepped in as interim CEO.
The company confirmed a board-led investigation had begun.
Just a day later, Astronomer announced Byron’s resignation and confirmed the board would begin a search for a permanent replacement.
Cabot, meanwhile, remains employed and on leave. She has not made any public statement and has deactivated her LinkedIn profile.
For now, DeJoy leads Astronomer through what he called an “unusual” chapter in the company’s growth. His focus, he said, remains on the team and the customers.
