Scandal and speculation have erupted around the global girl group KATSEYE following the extended absence of member Manon Bannerman. While originally announced as a hiatus for health and wellbeing, Bannerman's four-month break has coincided with the remaining five members achieving significant career milestones, leading to internal tension and fan speculation about her future with the group.
KATSEYE, formed on the reality competition show The Debut: Dream Academy, comprises members from the Philippines, South Korea, Switzerland, and the United States. Following their formation in 2024, the group quickly rose to prominence, performing at the 2026 Grammy Awards and earning nominations for Best New Artist and Best Pop Duo/Group Performance. However, shortly after, Bannerman's hiatus was announced in February.
Initially described as a temporary measure to allow the members "breathing room" and to reset the group's mood, Bannerman's absence has reportedly led KATSEYE to discover a "new rhythm." Sources suggest that the other members have noted Bannerman was not exerting the same level of effort, creating tension and straining their bond. "What was and has been originally described as a temporary break has increasingly started to feel like something much bigger," an insider told the Daily Mail. "Those feelings have created tension and have strained the bond they once shared."
Despite Bannerman's absence, KATSEYE has continued to find success. Their performance at Coachella in April was the most-watched of the festival's first week. They also delivered a notable performance at the American Music Awards, winning New Artist of the Year. Their first single without Bannerman, "Pinky Up," reached No. 28 on the Billboard Hot 100 and has garnered over 57 million views on its music video and over 141 million streams on Spotify. Their upcoming EP, "Wild," is set for release on August 14 and is already one of Spotify's most pre-saved albums. The group has also been added to the lineup for Olivia Rodrigo's upcoming Daisy Chain Fields music festival in August.
Bannerman's own social media activity has added fuel to the speculation. She has reportedly "liked" posts from commentators suggesting she has been a victim of "abhorrent hate" due to her race, and that black members of mixed-race girl groups often face racism. This has led to fan discussions online, with some arguing that the singling out of the only black member is indicative of racism. Bannerman herself took to the social media platform WeVerse to state, "I'm healthy, I'm okay, and I'm taking care of myself." However, she has since removed KATSEYE from her Instagram bio, sparking further concerns about her potential departure from the group.
While Bannerman has made individual appearances, including on Germany's Next Top Model and a collaboration with Tommy Hilfiger, her public profile has otherwise been low-key. She has reportedly been spending time with friends and is said to be frustrated with her portrayal on "Pop Star Academy: KATSEYE." A source close to Bannerman insists she "does not want to leave the band" but took the break to "work out what she wanted to do next."
Meanwhile, the remaining members of KATSEYE have publicly maintained a united front. They have offered supportive statements, with member Sophia Laforteza stating, "At the end of the day, we just all want each other to win. And to be good. And to feel good and to be happy." Lara Raj added, "we love her so much and we built this together. So we just want to give her all the space and love she needs right now."
Insiders suggest that the group will need to address Bannerman's situation more clearly before their upcoming world tour. "By the end of the summer things will be addressed and made much clearer as they all want to move forward for the benefit of all of them and their fans," a source told the Daily Mail.