Sophia Laforteza Offers New Update on Manon’s Hiatus
Katseye member Sophia Laforteza has once again addressed the status of bandmate Manon Bannerman, who has been on a health-related hiatus since February 2026. In an interview with Allure published June 25, Sophia made clear that the group continues to view itself as a six-member unit and that Manon’s return remains on her own terms.
“Because we did announce that it is about her well-being, it's not our place or anybody else's place to rush her,” Sophia said. “We want to give her all the time that she needs, all the space that she needs, and so we don't want to make any assumptions, set anything in stone.” She added, “She really deserves that and the door is always open.”
Sophia also acknowledged fans’ curiosity, noting that “if I was in their place I would be asking too.” She urged supporters to “keep extending love and support and patience and all those things, because all of us deserve that. Anybody does.”
This latest update comes nearly four months after Katseye first announced Manon’s temporary departure from group activities. The group has since maintained a busy schedule, performing at Coachella, the American Music Awards, and the Grammys, while promoting their upcoming EP, Wild, due August 14.
Group Refuses to Speculate on Return Timeline
Despite ongoing speculation, Sophia declined to speculate about when Manon might rejoin the group on stage. The Allure interview, conducted ahead of Katseye’s appearance at the 2026 American Music Awards, reinforced that the members are not setting a fixed timeline. Sophia emphasized that any assumptions about Manon’s return would be unfair, both to her and to fans.
Earlier this month, during a separate interview, Sophia gave a similar message: “We continue supporting her and ensuring that she keeps taking care of her well-being.” She admitted that moving forward without all six members has been emotionally difficult. “It’s hard to keep going with something that was built with all six girls, we really went through a lot,” she said. “I can confirm that she is still on hiatus, and we want the fans to know that Manon loves you all so much.”
The repeated statements underscore a deliberate strategy by the group and their label, HYBE x Geffen, to protect Manon’s privacy while managing fan expectations. No official return date has been announced.
Context: Manon’s Hiatus and Katseye’s Rise
Manon Bannerman, 22, stepped away from Katseye on February 20, 2026. The group’s label announced the decision via social media, stating that Manon would “step away from group activities to focus on her health and wellbeing.” The statement added, “We fully support this decision. Katseye remains committed to showing up for one another and for the fans who mean everything to us.”
At the time, Manon expressed gratitude for the support. “Sometimes things unfold in ways we don't fully control,” she wrote on her Weverse DMs, “but I'm trusting the bigger picture.”
In April, after fans noticed she had removed Katseye from her Instagram bio, Manon issued another update. “Thank you so much for all the love and support you've been sending my way,” she wrote. “I'm really grateful for the patience and kindness everyone has shown during this time. HxG and I are having positive conversations and I feel supported. I'm happy and I'm healthy. I'll share more soon.”
Her absence has not slowed Katseye’s momentum. The group—comprising Sophia, Yoonchae, Lara Raj, Daniela Avanzini, and Megan Skiendiel—performed at Coachella’s Sahara Stage in April, won multiple awards at the 2026 American Music Awards, and were nominated for two Grammys. Their upcoming EP, Wild, is scheduled for release on August 14, and their sold-out WILDWORLD Tour will take them across North America and Europe later this year. They also dropped the collaborative single “ICONIC BY MISTAKE” with LE SSERAFIM and ILLIT.
Fan Reactions and Social Media Scrutiny
The lack of a concrete timeline has fueled continuous speculation online. Fans have combed through social media posts, bio changes, and live streams for clues about Manon’s status. In April, the removal of Katseye from Manon’s Instagram bio sparked rumors of a permanent departure, prompting her Weverse clarification.
Some fans have criticized HYBE x Geffen for not providing more frequent official updates, while others have defended the group’s approach, arguing that health and privacy should come first. Sophia’s latest comments aim to reassure fans that Manon is still part of the group, even if she is not currently active.
Broader Implications: Hiatus Culture in K-Pop and Global Girl Groups
Manon’s hiatus is not an isolated incident. In the K-pop and global pop industries, health-related breaks have become increasingly common as labels face pressure to prioritize artist well-being. Groups like BTS, BLACKPINK, and TWICE have all seen members take time off for physical or mental health reasons.
What sets Manon’s situation apart is the transparency—or lack thereof—that Katseye and HYBE x Geffen have chosen. Unlike some labels that issue vague statements, Katseye’s members have taken it upon themselves to address fans directly, using interviews and fan platforms to maintain a connection.
Sophia’s repeated public statements signal a shift toward member-led communication, which helps humanize the group and build trust. However, it also places emotional labor on the remaining members, who must repeatedly field questions about their absent bandmate while managing their own performances and promotions.
The situation also highlights the unique pressures on groups formed through reality shows—like Popstar Academy, which created Katseye. Fans of such groups often feel a deep investment in each member’s journey, and any absence can spark intense speculation. For Katseye, this means that Manon’s every move is scrutinized, from Instagram activity to public appearances.
What’s Next for Katseye?
Katseye’s schedule through the rest of 2026 is packed. The WILDWORLD Tour will begin in the fall, and the group is expected to release more singles ahead of the Wild EP. No announcements have been made about Manon participating in any of these activities.
Industry observers note that if Manon does not return by the tour’s start, it could raise questions about the group’s long-term structure. However, the members remain optimistic. “The door is always open,” Sophia said—a line that suggests Manon’s spot is safe, no matter how long her hiatus lasts.
For now, fans are left waiting. As Sophia put it, “All of us deserve patience.” And in an industry that rarely slows down, patience may be the most valuable thing Katseye can ask for.
This article was updated on June 26, 2026 with the latest comments from Sophia Laforteza.
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