Phillies turn viral Coldplay cheating scandal of Andy Byron and Kristin Cabot into stadium entertainment

The Philadelphia Phillies introduced a new in-stadium entertainment feature on Friday(July 18), the Coldplay Kiss Cam. Inspired by a now-infamous moment at a Coldplay concert earlier this week, the team’s lighthearted tribute ignited laughter and commentary both inside Citizens Bank Park and across social media.

The incident that sparked the Phillies’ comedic spin began at Coldplay’s concert in Foxborough, Massachusetts, on Wednesday. As frontman Chris Martin performed under a wash of blue and gold lights, a couple appeared on the venue’s Jumbotron in a romantic embrace. Martin teased, “Oh look at these two... either they're having an affair or they're very shy.” Moments later, the pair awkwardly ducked out of frame, igniting a firestorm online.

They were soon identified as Andy Byron, CEO of data software firm Astronomer, and his colleague, HR Chief Kristin Cabot. Byron is married to Megan Kerrigan Byron, and the couple resides in New York. The Astronomer soon confirmed that both executives had been placed on leave, pending an internal investigation.


On Friday night, the Phillies brought the saga full circle. During their game against the Los Angeles Angels, the team’s Jumbotron featured a playful banner from fans reading, “No one is cheating on their wives here.” The Phillie Phanatic, the team’s beloved mascot, then reenacted the now-viral Coldplay scene, playfully shielding its face in faux embarrassment. Coldplay’s music reportedly played in the background as the camera zoomed in on couples.

Astronomer has not issued an official statement beyond acknowledging the leave of Byron and Cabot. However, the firm has been quietly working to address internal concerns. According to several media outlets, a fraudulent apology circulating online, purportedly from Byron, was quickly debunked as a hoax. Meanwhile, his wife Megan has reportedly removed his last name from her social media handles, and the couple’s future remains unclear.

Just hours before the Phillies’ comedic nod, ESPN’s SportsCenter anchors Gary Striewski and Randy Scott also reenacted the Coldplay moment on live television.