KATSEYE members Sophia Laforteza and Manon Bannerman are on temporary hiatuses from the group, but both remain part of the six-member lineup, according to statements from the group’s label and remaining members. Manon first announced her hiatus in February 2026 to focus on her health and wellbeing, followed by Sophia’s announcement on August 7, 2026 to prioritize her mental health.
Sophia, the group’s leader, addressed fans directly after her hiatus was announced. “Making this decision wasn’t easy, but I’m learning that health has to come first,” she wrote. “I’m realizing that if I don’t take care of my mind and body now, I won’t be able to keep doing what I love the most for a long time.”
In late August, HYBE x Geffen confirmed that Sophia would not participate in any of the European stops of KATSEYE’s Wildword tour, scheduled between September 1 and September 17, which includes shows in Dublin, London, Manchester, Paris, Amsterdam, Cologne, Antwerp, and Copenhagen. The labels stated in a Weverse post that “Sophia is focusing on her well-being, and the company remains fully committed to providing her with all the support and resources needed.”
Manon’s hiatus sparked initial fan concerns about whether she might be leaving permanently. The Swiss-Ghanaian member had previously addressed similar speculation on Weverse, writing: “Not going anywhere?? In the studio rehearsing as I’m typing this… kisses!” When her hiatus was announced in February, she posted on Instagram, “I love you all more than words can describe,” thanking everyone for their support.
The remaining members have consistently emphasized that both Sophia and Manon remain part of KATSEYE. When the group appeared on the cover of Allure magazine in June 2026 as a five-member lineup, Sophia told the publication: “Because we did announce that the hiatus is about her well-being, it’s not our place or anybody else’s place to rush her. We want to give her all the time that she needs, all the space that she needs. The door is always open.” She added, “We love her and the fans love her.”
KATSEYE was formed as a six-member group through the 2023 reality competition series The Debut: Dream Academy, a collaboration between HYBE and Geffen Records. The group consists of Sophia Laforteza, Manon Bannerman, Lara Raj, Daniela Avanzini, Megan Skiendiel, and Yoonchae Jeung. Since their formation, they have released multiple singles and performed at major festivals including Coachella and Lollapalooza.
Temporary hiatuses in girl groups are not uncommon. Little Mix announced an indefinite hiatus in December 2021 after 11 years together, with members Jade Thirlwall, Perrie Edwards, and Leigh-Anne Pinnock pursuing solo careers. The group began their formal break in May 2022. Similarly, Fifth Harmony went on an indefinite hiatus in May 2018 to allow members to pursue solo projects. However, both groups have left open the possibility of future reunions—Little Mix members have hinted at a potential comeback, and Fifth Harmony reunited for a one-off performance in 2025.
Manon has continued to update fans during her hiatus. On June 26, she posted on Instagram for her 24th birthday, writing: “birthday! never been healthier, happier, or more grateful. grateful for the people who love me, care for me, make me laugh, and remind me what really matters.” In April, she released a statement on Weverse saying: “I’m really grateful for the patience and kindness everyone has shown during this time. HxG and I are having positive conversations and I feel supported. I’m happy and I’m healthy.”
Sophia’s mother, Carla Guevara-Laforteza, gave an update on her daughter’s activities during the hiatus in an August interview with Vogue Philippines. “She goes to Disneyland every day; she’s baking, she’s painting. She’s literally doing everything to get mentally well,” her mother said. Sophia herself posted on Instagram Stories, “I can’t express enough how much I want to participate in this tour and perform for you all. You can’t pour from an empty cup. It’s important to care for yourself.”
Sources
- Teen Vogue — Complete timeline of Sophia and Manon’s hiatuses with official statements, member quotes, and chronological events from February through August 2026
- Billboard — Sophia’s statement and group reassurance about remaining a six-member unit
- Wikipedia — KATSEYE formation through The Debut: Dream Academy in 2023 and group member lineup
- Wikipedia — Little Mix hiatus announcement in December 2021 and May 2022 start date
- Wikipedia — Fifth Harmony indefinite hiatus in May 2018
- Variety — Sophia Laforteza’s August 7, 2026 hiatus announcement and mental health focus
- BBC News — Confirmation of Sophia’s temporary step back from group over mental health concerns
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