In a move that has sent shockwaves through the music community, Manon Bannerman, a prominent member of the acclaimed girl group Katseye, has announced a temporary hiatus from all group activities. The 23-year-old singer will step back to concentrate fully on her personal health and wellbeing, a decision that has left the group's devoted fanbase, known as EYEKONS, reeling with concern yet rallying with unwavering support.
Official Statement Confirms Temporary Break
A formal statement released by Katseye on Friday confirmed the news, following what was described as open and thoughtful discussions among the members. The group, which operates under the joint banner of Hybe and Geffen Records, emphasised their full backing of Bannerman's choice. The statement 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.'
It was further clarified that the remaining five members—Daniela Avanzini, Lara Raj, Megan Skiendiel, Sophia Laforteza, and Yoonchae Jeung—will continue with all scheduled engagements during this period. The message concluded with a heartfelt note of gratitude to the fans, signing off with, 'Thank you to our EYEKONS for your continued love, patience, and understanding. HxG.'
Fan Reaction: A Wave of Love and Concern
Social media platforms, particularly X, were swiftly inundated with messages from distressed yet supportive followers. One fan expressed, 'This is sad. Katseye by far the best GG with vocals & visuals. I hope she returns.' Another wrote passionately, 'GET WELL SOON MANON I LOVE YOU PLEASE COME BACK,' while a third shared, 'Sick to my stomach right now. Take all the time you need Manon, rest well and we'll be supporting you every day.'
The overwhelming sentiment echoed a collective understanding and encouragement, with many praising the group's solidarity. A fan noted, 'I'm so glad you guys support each other and took the best decision for manon's wellbeing, we love you manon!!! we'll be here waiting for u.' Another added, 'oh, my manon, take all the time you need to recover from anything and everything you're going through. us eyekons love you very much!!!'
Katseye's Journey and Recent Achievements
Formed in 2023 through the reality competition series Dream Academy, Katseye is a Los Angeles-based ensemble that has quickly risen to prominence. Their debut single, released in 2024, was followed by tracks like Touch and the EP SIS (Soft Is Strong). In April 2025, they dropped the single Gnarly, featured on their second EP, Beautiful Chaos.
The group's track Gabriela, also from that EP, peaked at number 21 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and earned a nomination for Best Pop Duo/Group Performance at the 2026 Grammy Awards. Their most recent performance as a complete six-member unit was at that very ceremony, where they delivered a high-energy rendition of Gnarly.
Navigating Challenges and Embracing Diversity
Late last year, Katseye revealed they had enlisted a group therapist to help manage the pressures of fame, including coping with severe online harassment and death threats. Lara Raj candidly told Rolling Stone, 'I try to tell myself it doesn't matter, but if 1,000 people are sending you death threats… even if it's not going to happen… it's heavy, and it's jarring.' Bannerman herself described such experiences as 'very terrorizing on the mind.'
Bannerman has often spoken about the group's commitment to diversity and representation. In an interview with the Associated Press, she remarked, 'People want to see diversity. People want to see themselves represented on the TV, on billboards. And I really hope that people high up see that and see that it works, and implement that.' She reiterated this pride during a chat with Hypebae, stating, 'We're just really grateful… one of the most beautiful things about the casting side for me is that we all look so different and diverse, and like any girl can look at us and see herself in us.'
Future Uncertain but Hopeful
While the hiatus is explicitly termed temporary, no specific timeline has been provided for Bannerman's return. The group concluded their The Beautiful Chaos Tour in Mexico City on December 16 of last year, and their future activities will proceed with the five active members until further notice. Fans worldwide now await updates, holding onto hope for Bannerman's swift recovery and eventual reunion with the band.
