Why Kristin Cabot Hasn’t Been Fired After Coldplay "Cheating" Scandal — Legal and HR Expert Analysis
The unexpected viral moment at Coldplay’s July 16 concert—involving CEO Andy Byron and Astronomer Chief People Officer Kristin Cabot—sparked a high‑profile scandal. Byron resigned in wake of the Kiss Cam footage, yet Cabot remains on administrative leave. Why? Let’s explore the legal and contractual nuances, and whether she can bring a lawsuit.
1. 🚫 Headlines Alone Don’t Justify Firing
According to employment attorneys, “you can’t just fire someone because the headlines are ugly”. The company must abide by contractual obligations, due process, internal HR policies, and legal review before even considering termination.
2. The Internal Investigation Is Still Ongoing
Astronomer’s board has initiated a formal probe into the incident . Until the investigation concludes, any decision—like termination—would be premature and possibly expose Astronomer to wrongful termination liability.
3. Role of HR Chief Means Extra Scrutiny
Cabot leads the very department responsible for investigating misconduct. Firing her prematurely raises conflicts: she could claim the policy around workplace relationships wasn’t impartially applied to her. Legal counsel is likely weighing “liability and contract issues,” as well as potential exit terms.
4. Exit Negotiations May Be Under Way
Experts suggest Astronomer may be negotiating a separation agreement behind the scenes. William Cafaro notes:
“Like if you were to look for a picture of ‘cause’ [for firing] in the dictionary, it would show a picture of the head of HR having a public affair with the CEO” .
So while termination looks likely, timing and terms are under discussion.
5. Could Cabot Sue Astronomer?
She might consider legal action—but a lawsuit’s success isn’t guaranteed.
Wrongful termination: If fired without proper cause or due process, Cabot may file suit—but the internal investigation and contractual clauses could undercut her claim.
Sexual harassment: Unlikely. Because the relationship appears consensual, not coerced. “Being embarrassed on a Jumbotron isn’t the same as being harassed at work”.
Discrimination or breach of contract: Possible only if Astronomer handles her case inconsistently with its own policies or contract terms.
🌐 Broader Implications
The scandal underscores modern challenges when personal relationships intersect with corporate hierarchies. Many companies include strict policies governing relationships between executives, especially those involving HR leadership or supervisory roles.
⚖️ What Happens Next
Investigation outcome: Could reveal policy violations—like undisclosed romance or misuse of position.
Separation deal: A negotiated exit (e.g., with severance) may emerge, avoiding a messy public termination.
Legal risk: Astronomer must tread carefully to preserve its reputation and avoid litigation.
✅ Final Verdict
Kristin Cabot hasn’t been fired yet due to contractual complexity, legal prudence, and internal investigations. While her dismissal seems likely, it hinges on due process and negotiation. A lawsuit by Cabot is possible—but only if Astronomer mishandles her case or breaches contract terms. Absent that, and since the relationship appears consensual, her legal grounds remain uncertain.