New footage reveals Kristin’s implicit testimony, pushing the Astronomer scandal into a full-blown corporate ethics crisis

“Promised a Raise, Threatened with Job Loss”: A Relationship Built on Power?

A shocking new development in the scandal between former CEO Andy Byron and HR chief Kristin Cabot: Kristin was allegedly manipulated with promises of promotion — and threatened with job loss if she didn’t comply with Andy’s demands.

“He promised me a raise…”
“You know what happens if you don’t go along with this.”

If true, these statements raise serious concerns about abuse of power, workplace coercion, and internal blackmail at the executive level.

A 15-Second Hug That Shook Tech

At a Coldplay concert in Boston, the two were caught on Kiss Cam, affectionately embracing in public. This wasn’t a private affair — it happened in front of thousands, and their panicked reaction when the camera turned to them only fueled speculation.

The video, captured by Grace Springer, went viral, amassing over 53 million views. Within an hour, internet users had already identified both parties.

Missing LinkedIn, Missing Ring, and Quiet Confessions in the Garden

Kristin Cabot was spotted for the first time since the scandal, watering plants at her $2.2 million home — without her wedding ring. Once worn proudly in social media photos, the ring was notably absent during the concert and after.

While she has not issued a formal statement, rumors circulated that Kristin told a relative:

“He promised me a raise. That’s how it all started.”

Who Leaked It, and Why?

Insiders say the first TikTok post was made by a company employee who:

Knew Kristin’s exact job title

Knew both execs were married

Was present at the concert

This raises further questions: Had Astronomer known for some time, but kept quiet to avoid media backlash?

Legal Repercussions: More Than Just “Office Romance”

Legal experts were quick to weigh in:

“If a CEO uses the promise of advancement to pressure a subordinate, it’s no longer a consensual relationship.”

Even more problematic? Kristin was Head of HR — the very person meant to prevent workplace misconduct like this.

Andy Steps Down. Kristin’s Status? Unknown.

Andy resigned over the weekend under board pressure

Kristin’s employment remains unclear — sources are split on whether she resigned or is simply on leave

Both deleted their LinkedIn accounts

Andy’s wife has removed his last name from Facebook, according to followers

Internet Divided: Victim or Accomplice?

On X (formerly Twitter), public opinion is split into three camps:

Supporters of Kristin: She was coerced, a victim of executive manipulation

Critics of both: Inappropriate behavior regardless of power dynamics

Skeptics: Demand evidence and warn against trial by internet

One expert commented:

“A CEO dating the head of HR isn’t just unethical — it’s a dangerous blind spot in corporate governance.”

Behind Closed Doors: Layers of Misconduct?

Reports suggest Kristin was called to Andy’s private office multiple times, for hours at a time

A brief moment of affection has triggered a corporate cultural reckoning

The looming question:

If Kristin was under pressure, is the company now silencing her?

Final Thoughts: No Longer Just a Private Matter

What began as a viral concert video has spiraled into a potentially global case of executive misconduct.

If Kristin’s alleged comments are real, she isn’t just a character in the clip — she may be a victim trapped in a web of corporate coercion.

And Andy Byron?
He may have lost millions, his career, and his family reputation — all for a few regrettable seconds on a Jumbotron.