The was shocked when KATSEYE announced on all of their official accounts that Manon Bannerman would be taking a hiatus from all group activities to focus on her health and well-being. Though the message was framed like the hiatus was mutually agreed upon soon after the label’s announcement, Manon posted her own personal statement on Weverse saying that she is “healthy, okay, and taking care of [herself].”
Though this message was meant to put fans at ease, it only fueled speculation that the break could be for more than just health.
From Health Break to Speculation
Manon’s statement on Weverse left many fans concerned as she stated that “sometimes things unfold in ways that we don’t fully control,” leading some to believe that this was a hiatus forced upon Manon by Hybe x Geffen, rather than Manon’s choice.
Some fans have even tied her hiatus to larger arguments over the treatment of Black artists—especially women—in global pop bands, which was only encouraged after Manon liked a post on Instagram highlighting the racism and mistreatment Black women typically have to face within the industry.
Fans’ Frustration Amplified
Now what has started as Manon being placed on hiatus has turned into a whole rumor of her allegedly getting kicked out of the group, which has made Manon the target for online backlash with some accusing her of being dramatic or selfish or of “just not wanting to work” by taking this hiatus.
Silence (and Signals) from KATSEYE Members
Perhaps the most interesting thing about this situation is the silence from the other members of Katseye about the situation. Unlike other controversies where members would come to the defense of others, none of the other five women in KATSEYE have explicitly defended Manon. While this could very well be management telling the other girls to stay silent on the issue, many fans have interpreted this silence as complicity or indifference.
Furthermore, adding fuel to the fire has been Rafael Avanzini, Daniela’s father, who has made numerous remarks across various social media platforms suggesting that the group could still operate “with or without” Manon.
All in all, whatever the future holds for Manon and for KATSEYE, fans and critics alike would benefit from more compassion for Manon’s situation and until everything has been officially confirmed or denied, we need to stop the rumor-mongering, and just support Manon in the time being.
