A Coldplay show recently turned into an internet firestorm when a quick appearance on the venue’s jumbotron — the ‘kiss cam’ — became scandalous. The video caught two guests, who were later revealed to be Andy Bryon, former CEO of software firm Astronomer, and Kristin Cabot, head of HR at the company.
What started as a harmless viral clip soon escalated into a scandal, prompting Bryon to quit and attracting unsuspecting players — like dairy behemoth Amul — into the mix. With the meme fest grew the firestorm surrounding privacy, ethics, and brand conduct.
The Kiss That Sparked It All
While at the concert of Coldplay, lead singer Chris Martin opened for the bit by explaining that the group wished to wave hello to the audience with their cameras. Scanning the audience with the different screens, the camera stopped on Bryon and Cabot, they exchanged a shy smile, causing eyebrows to raise immediately. Martin picked up on the atmosphere, adding, “Either they are having an affair, or they are pretty shy, I hope we didn’t do something terrible.”
The public and social media were abuzz; it looked like this was a moment of sweetness that turned into overnight headline news. Before long, sleuth fans recognized the pair, and it was a tale of posting and reaction.
Corporate Consequences Hit Fast
As soon as the identities of the duo were made public, Astronomer, the technology company involved, came out with an official statement. They confirmed that Andy Bryon had stepped down as the CEO and the company remained tight-lipped about Cabot’s status, but the public backlash continued to intensify.
Amul’s Meme Ad Adds Fuel to Fire
Amul, whose ads have always been witty and topical, entered the viral moment. Their new poster had the doodle of Bryon and Cabot, smiling at them was the Amul girl. The ad playfully took a cue from the hit song in the 1973 film Bobby, “Hum tum ek camera mein bandh ho! Only Scoops, no oops!”
Its social media update was: “Amul Topical: Couple caught on ‘kiss cam’ at Coldplay concert!”
Mixed Reactions Roll in Online
Some lauded Amul for being on trend — “Amul never misses the trends” — while others did not mince words a number of users condemned the brand for being insensitive about a sensitive moment. “Not expecting Amul to be part of this Coldplay couple meme bandwagon,” one posted. Another said, “This is in bad taste for your standards, do not fall for such trending issues.”
A Moment Faxed, A Debate Ignited
The Coldplay kiss cam scandal is polarizing the internet once again. From memes to resignations, from celebrity opinions to company backlash — this incident shows how rapidly personal actions can escalate to international spectacle. And as for Amul, the brand has a thin rope to walk between becoming relevant and insensitive. And as for those who featured in the footage, the repercussions have already hit them.
