KATSEYE addresses Manon Bannerman’s hiatus amid ongoing fan speculation

KATSEYE has finally addressed the ongoing speculation surrounding bandmate Manon Bannerman’s temporary KATSEYE has finally addressed

KATSEYE has finally addressed the ongoing speculation surrounding bandmate Manon Bannerman’s temporary KATSEYE has finally addressed the ongoing speculation surrounding bandmate Manon Bannerman’s temporary fan concern and online controversy., KATSEYE leader Sophia Laforteza explained that Manon’s decision to step away from the group was entirely personal and made in the interest of her well-being. Sophia emphasized that both the members and the management fully respect Manon’s choice and are committed to giving her all the time she needs before making any decisions about her future.

“Since we announced that this is about her well-being, it’s not our place—or anyone else’s—to pressure her,” Sophia said. “We want to give her all the space and time she needs. We don’t want to make assumptions or set expectations because she deserves the opportunity to recover on her own terms. The door is always open whenever she’s ready.”

Sophia’s comments come months after KATSEYE received the New Artist of the Year award at the 2026 American Music Awards (AMAs), marking a major milestone for the global girl group. During their acceptance speech, the members thanked BTS for inspiring them to proudly represent their culture on the international stage. However, fans quickly noticed that Manon’s name was not mentioned, leading to criticism and renewed speculation about her relationship with the group.

The controversy began earlier this year when HYBE x Geffen announced that Manon, the group’s only Black member, would be taking an indefinite hiatus for health-related reasons. While the company cited concerns for her well-being, Manon later shared a cryptic statement suggesting the situation was more complicated than it appeared. She reassured fans that she was in good health but added that “things unfold in ways we don’t fully control.”

Fueling further speculation, Manon briefly liked—and later unliked—an Instagram post discussing racism and the mistreatment often experienced by the only Black members in girl groups, drawing comparisons to Normani’s experience in Fifth Harmony. This led many fans to question whether issues beyond health had influenced her absence.

Despite the ongoing rumors, KATSEYE has continued its activities as a five-member group. In April, they released the single Pinky Up, featuring Sophia, Lara, Megan, Daniela, and Yoonchae. Although Manon did not participate in the release, fans continued to hope for her return.

The group has since offered subtle signs that they remain supportive of their absent bandmate. On Manon’s birthday, KATSEYE’s official Instagram account posted a heartfelt message wishing her a happy birthday and encouraged fans to leave their own birthday wishes in the comments. Sophia’s recent statement that “the door is always open” has further reassured fans that Manon remains an important part of the group.

However, reports from unnamed insiders have claimed that Manon currently has no immediate plans to rejoin KATSEYE. Neither the singer nor her representatives have publicly commented on those claims, leaving her future with the group uncertain.

KATSEYE was formed in 2023 through The Debut: Dream Academy, the global survival competition created by HYBE and Geffen Records. The group’s journey from trainees to international stars was later documented in the Netflix series Pop Star Academy, introducing them to audiences around the world.