Could Kristin Cabot Sue for Sexual Harassment? Employment Lawyer Says, 'A Jury Might Laugh'

Could Kristin Cabot take legal action against former Astronomer CEO Andy Byron for sexual harassment after the pair were caught in a compromising moment on the kiss-cam at a Coldplay concert near Boston on 16 July?

The incident has sparked a heated debate online, with many questioning whether a harassment claim would stand up in court.

Legal experts say Cabot would face significant challenges if she tried to sue for sexual harassment, arguing that the apparently consensual nature of the incident would likely undermine her case before a jury.

The Incident That Sparked a Firestorm

The controversy began when Cabot, Chief People Officer at Astronomer, and CEO Andy Byron were filmed sharing a kiss at Gillette Stadium after Coldplay frontman Chris Martin pointed them out on the jumbotron. Their awkward yet public embrace quickly went viral, triggering a social media storm and a swift backlash against the company's leadership.

Byron resigned almost immediately, reportedly under heavy internal pressure. Cabot, meanwhile, was placed on administrative leave pending the outcome of an internal investigation, leaving her future at Astronomer uncertain.

Who Is Kristin Cabot?

Cabot joined Astronomer as Chief People Officer in 2024 and quickly earned a reputation for championing progressive HR policies and diversity. However, the scandal has cast a shadow over her career and raised questions about the workplace culture she helped foster.

The Legal Dilemma

Legal experts suggest Cabot would struggle to mount a successful sexual harassment case. Employment law specialist Michael Epstein told the Hindustan Times that such cases typically require evidence of unwelcome advances.

'If Kristin Cabot took this particular case before a jury, there is a good chance she would face ridicule rather than sympathy. It is tough to argue harassment convincingly when you appeared comfortable and willing at the moment,' Epstein said.

Company Response and Next Steps

Astronomer responded swiftly by accepting Byron's resignation and launching an internal inquiry. According to the New York Post, company leaders are considering their options to limit further reputational fallout, with an official announcement expected soon.

Other Legal Avenues

While sexual harassment may be a difficult case to prove, Epstein noted that Cabot could potentially consider claims for wrongful dismissal or even defamation, depending on how events unfold. However, these legal avenues also come with challenges, particularly given her senior role and the widely circulated video evidence.

What Lies Ahead

As Astronomer completes its investigation, both Cabot's future and the company's reputation remain in question. The scandal has reignited debate over boundaries between professional and personal conduct and underscored how viral moments can quickly upend even the most established careers.