Astronomer Scandal Spurs Viral PR Response

Astronomer's CEO Andy Byron and head of HR Kristin Cabot resigned after being caught on a Coldplay kiss cam and facing accusations of an affair, which ignited a viral scandal and widespread internet attention. In response, the tech company hired Gwyneth Paltrow, Oscar-winning actress and ex-wife of Coldplay’s Chris Martin, as a temporary spokesperson. Paltrow appeared in a satirical video posted on Astronomer's social media, humorously dodging scandal-related questions while promoting the company's data workflow products and the upcoming Beyond Analytics conference. The lighthearted, self-aware PR move was widely praised and helped stabilize Astronomer's public image. Interim CEO Pete DeJoy has taken charge during this period. The affair and Astronomer's creative response have made the company a household name and a trending topic across social media.