Coldplay Drops Kiss Cams After Viral Scandal Backlash

• Coldplay replaced kiss cams with neutral crowd shots after viral drama.
• Chris Martin’s playful warning emphasized consent and preparation.
• The original incident led to a CEO’s resignation and corporate investigation.
• The change aligns with growing scrutiny over invasive audience segments.

Following the awkward viral moment between Astronomer CEO Andy Byron and HR head Kristin Cabot at their July 16 show, Coldplay has changed how they interact with the crowd.

At their next concert in Madison, Wisconsin, frontman Chris Martin playfully warned attendees before the cameras rolled, marking a clear shift from the controversial “kiss cam” segment.

Coldplay’s New Approach Avoids Repeat of Viral Drama

During the July 20 performance, Martin introduced the crowd cam with a cheeky but pointed disclaimer:

“We’d like to say hello to some of you in the crowd… So please, if you haven’t done your makeup, do your makeup now.”

Unlike the Foxborough show, no couples were in focus, only wide shots of cheering fans. This adjustment, although not announced, indicated the band’s awareness of the fallout from the earlier incident.

The Incident That Sparked the Change

At Gillette Stadium, the kiss cam caught Byron and Cabot in an embrace before they panicked and hid, which led to Martin’s offhand remark:

“Either they’re having an affair or they’re just very shy.”

The clip turned into a corporate scandal, resulting in Byron’s resignation and an internal investigation at Astronomer. The band responded with a more cautious, inclusive camera strategy that focuses on fun without discomfort.

Why This Shift Matters

Kiss cams have a history of creating awkward situations, from unintended public displays of affection to accusations of homophobia. Coldplay’s shift reflects a wider trend of artists reevaluating how they engage with audiences, especially under viral scrutiny.

As Martin’s lighthearted warning illustrated, a bit of transparency can prevent chaos and keep the focus on the music.

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Last Updated on July 21, 2025 by 247 News Around The World