KATSEYE, the popular girl group that emerged from the reality competition series Dream Academy, has recently provided an update regarding Manon Bannerman, who announced a “temporary hiatus” from the group in February. The decision was made so that the 24-year-old could prioritise her health and wellbeing, and since then, the remaining members have continued their journey as a quintet. They have performed at major events like Coachella and are currently preparing for the release of a new EP in August.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/katseye-62626-2e863db98cc74219bc72634ae3dcd924.jpg)
In a recent interview with Allure, KATSEYE members Daniela Avanzini, Lara Raj, Megan Skiendiel, Sophia Laforteza, and Yoonchae expressed their unwavering support for Manon’s choice to step back. The group warmly welcomed her to return whenever she feels ready, highlighting that it is essential for her to take the necessary time without any pressure from fans or the media.
Sophia Laforteza reiterated the group’s commitment to Manon’s wellbeing, emphasising that there should be no rush for her to come back. “Because we did announce that it is about her well-being, it’s not our place or anybody else’s place to rush her,” she stated. The sentiment reflects a mutual understanding amongst the group and their audience, who have shown concern during this period. They are hopeful that fans can continue to offer their love and support during this time.
Acknowledging the curiosity surrounding Manon’s status, Sophia encouraged fans to be patient, expressing that the entire group deeply values her presence. “We love her and the fans love her. The people love her. They love KATSEYE,” she affirmed. Sophia’s remarks highlight the sense of community built around the band and its supporters, reinforcing the belief that a nurturing and understanding environment is vital for all involved.
KATSEYE’s statement from February outlined their collective dedication to one another and the fans. They expressed, “The group will continue scheduled activities during this time, and we look forward to being together again when the time is right.” This affirmation of support was coupled with a promise to maintain their commitment to performances and engagement with their audience while respecting Manon’s space.
Manon herself made a brief statement in April on Weverse, acknowledging the outpouring of love she received from fans. She mentioned having “positive conversations” with their label, HxG, indicating that communication remains strong despite her temporary absence from the group’s activities. However, followers noted that she had chosen to remove KATSEYE from her Instagram biography, leading to further speculation about her future with the group.
In her message, Manon reassured fans about her health, declaring, “I’m happy and I’m healthy. I’ll share more soon.” This positivity reflects her determination to focus on her personal wellbeing and the deep appreciation she has for the support she has received during her break.
KATSEYE first gained recognition in 2024, following their formation on the reality series Dream Academy, which was subsequently chronicled in the Netflix series Pop Star Academy: KATSEYE. They made a significant impact with their debut EP titled SIS (Soft Is Strong) and were nominated for two Grammy Awards, including Best New Artist, showcasing their rapid ascent within the music industry.
As KATSEYE prepares for their new EP and upcoming performances, there is a palpable sense of optimism surrounding their future. The remaining members continue to engage with their fans while ensuring that Manon’s choices are respected. As they navigate this transitional period, the group remains committed to their mission of delivering music and a positive message while safeguarding each other’s wellbeing.