Katseye member Manon Bannerman announced on February 20, 2026, that she will be taking a temporary hiatus from group activities to focus on her “health and wellbeing.” The announcement was made via Weverse, the global fandom platform used by HYBE, the talent agency and record label behind the two-time Grammy-nominated girl group.
Announcement Details and Group Support
In a joint statement from HYBE and Geffen Records, the companies expressed full support for Manon’s decision, emphasizing that Katseye remains committed to supporting one another and their fans. The group will continue with all scheduled activities during Manon’s hiatus, with hopes of reuniting when the time is right.
| Aspect | Information |
|---|---|
| Announcement Date | February 20, 2026 |
| Member Taking Leave | Manon Bannerman (Swiss-born, age 23) |
| Announcement Platform | Weverse (HYBE’s global fandom platform) |
| Reason | Health and wellbeing focus |
| Type of Leave | Temporary hiatus (duration unspecified) |
| Group Status | Continues scheduled activities without Manon |
| Label Support | HYBE x Geffen Records (HxG) |
| Upcoming Activities | Coachella performance in April 2026 |
Katseye Group Background and Achievements
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Formation | 2023 via Netflix’s Dream Academy (Popstar Academy) |
| Total Members | 6 (Manon, Yoonchae, Lara Raj, Daniela Avanzini, Sophia Laforteza, Megan Skiendiel) |
| Labels | HYBE and Geffen Records collaboration |
| Grammy Nominations 2026 | Best New Artist, Best Pop Duo/Group Performance |
| Notable Song | “Gnarly” (performed at Grammy Awards) |
| Also Nominated | “Gabriela” for Best Pop Duo/Group Performance |
| Debut Performance | Grammy Awards 2026 (February) |
| Fan Name | EYEKONS |
The Official Statement
The statement released via Weverse read: “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. We fully support this decision. KATSEYE remains committed to showing up for one another and for the fans who mean everything to us.”
The message continued: “The group will continue scheduled activities during this time, and we look forward to being together again when the time is right. Thank you to our EYEKONS for your continued love, patience, and understanding.”
Manon Bannerman’s Background
Manon Bannerman, born in Switzerland, gained recognition before joining Katseye through posting fashion and lifestyle videos on TikTok and Instagram starting in 2021. Her participation in Netflix’s Dream Academy led to her selection as one of the six founding members of Katseye.
At the 2026 Grammy Awards, the 23-year-old demonstrated her commitment to group unity. Speaking to media outlets, she emphasized: “The biggest thing is we’re constantly supporting each other. That’s the one thing. Just constantly making sure that we’re all coming up on this crazy journey together and that we’re not leaving anybody behind.”
Mental Health and Online Harassment Context
The hiatus announcement comes amid Katseye’s recent nominations and rising prominence. Last fall, when speaking with the BBC, all six group members alleged they received death threats and substantial online harassment since their debut. Manon specifically described the experience as “very terrorizing on the mind.”
In response to these challenges, Katseye hired a group therapist to help members cope with pressures of modern stardom and online toxicity. The group has consistently emphasized their commitment to collective wellbeing and mutual support.
Group Continues Scheduled Activities
While Manon focuses on her health and wellbeing, Katseye will proceed with scheduled performances and activities. The group is confirmed to perform at Coachella in April 2026, one of music’s most prestigious festival events. The group’s commitment to continuing performances despite Manon’s absence demonstrates the flexibility of their touring structure and the group’s professional obligations.
Industry Context and Fan Response
The announcement received immediate support from the music industry and fan community. EYEKONS, as Katseye’s dedicated fanbase is known, have expressed understanding and continued support for the member’s health prioritization.
This decision aligns with growing industry trends recognizing mental health awareness and supporting artists’ wellbeing. K-pop and global music groups increasingly prioritize member health, with several major acts implementing similar hiatus protocols for members requiring breaks.
Return Timeline and Future Plans
The official statement did not specify a return date for Manon, stating only that the group looks forward to reuniting “when the time is right.”
This open-ended approach prioritizes Manon’s health recovery without rushing her return, reflecting contemporary industry best practices regarding artist wellbeing.
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