Overview

• Interim CEO Pete DeJoy described the recent spotlight as “unusual and surreal,” calling Astronomer “a household name” and vowing to support employees and customers under his stewardship.
• A board-led investigation into the July 16 kiss-cam embrace continues, with Chief People Officer Kristin Cabot remaining on administrative leave.
• Employment law experts caution that dismissing Cabot could trigger legal challenges and say any personnel moves will depend on the inquiry’s findings.
• Social media users and major brands keep the episode alive with new memes and parodies, and Coldplay’s Chris Martin along with other artists have playfully referenced the moment on stage.
• While DeJoy serves in an acting capacity, the board has signaled plans to launch a formal search for a permanent chief executive as the company navigates its newfound visibility.