KATSEYE member Manon has announced a temporary hiatus to focus on her health, according to a statement from HYBE x Geffen Records. The group will continue promotions as five members while fans react to the news and online controversy surrounding comments attributed to a family member of another member. No timeline for Manon’s return has been confirmed.
KATSEYE member Manon Bannerman will be stepping away from group activities temporarily to focus on her health, HYBE x Geffen Records confirmed on February 21, 2026.
The announcement stated that the decision followed discussions between the artist and management. The remaining members — Sophia Laforteza, Daniela Avanzini, Lara Raj, Megan Skiendiel, and Yoonchae — will continue scheduled promotions during her absence.
HYBE x Geffen Records released the following statement:
“After open and thoughtful conversations together, we are sharing that Manon will be taking a temporary hiatus from group activities to focus on her health and wellbeing. Katseye remains committed to showing up for one another and for the fans who mean everything to us. The group will continue scheduled activities during this time, and we look forward to being together again when the time is right.”
No timeline for her return has been announced.
Manon Addresses Fans Directly
Manon also shared a personal message addressing concerns about her condition:
“Hi friends 🤍.
I want you to hear this from me, I’m healthy, I’m okay, and I’m taking care of myself. Thank u for checking in! Sometimes things unfold in ways we don’t fully control, but I’m trusting the bigger picture. Thank you for standing by me. I love you endlessly and can’t wait to see you again.”
Her statement emphasized that she is currently well and focused on self-care.
Background and Ongoing Speculation
Manon, 21, is the oldest member of KATSEYE, the global girl group formed through the 2023 Netflix survival series Dream Academy. The group has been building international momentum with releases including “Debut” and “Touch.”
While management cited health and wellbeing as the reason for the hiatus, online discussions have generated speculation regarding possible underlying causes. Some fans have referenced rumors of a back injury, though no medical details have been confirmed.
Others have connected the timing of the hiatus to Manon’s recent short film project titled NOT BAD, which she created with friends Violet and Sophie. Online speculation suggested the project may not have been coordinated with management. However, fans have pointed out that the video was “liked” by Geffen and HYBE on social media platforms, challenging claims that it was unauthorized.
There is no official confirmation linking the short film to the hiatus.
Comments from Daniela Avanzini’s Father Spark Backlash
Additional controversy emerged after comments attributed to Daniela Avanzini’s father circulated widely online.
Screenshots shared across social media platforms showed remarks made under videos discussing Manon’s hiatus. The comments, which were later deleted, included:
- “THE SHOW MUST GO ON! With or without a member. KATSEYE IS BIGGER THAN ONE GIRL.”
- “We need girls who can grind. KATSEYE is power house the show must go on.”
- “5 is ok too”
Some outlets also reported variations such as:
“Come back when you ready to work.”
The comments were reportedly posted on platforms such as Instagram or TikTok rather than from a verified public X account. Screenshots quickly circulated across X and Reddit, prompting significant debate within the fandom.
Critics described the remarks as insensitive given the health-related nature of the hiatus. Others interpreted them as general encouragement for the group to continue its activities.
As of February 22, 2026, neither Daniela Avanzini nor her father has issued a public statement addressing the controversy.
Fandom Reaction
Fans, known as EYEKONS, have expressed support for Manon while also voicing concern about the situation. Hashtags advocating support for the full six-member lineup trended across social platforms following the announcement.
At present, KATSEYE will continue scheduled promotions as a five-member group during Manon’s hiatus. Management has reiterated its support for her recovery and wellbeing.
No further updates regarding her return have been provided.
