The sudden announcement that Manon Bannerman will take a temporary hiatus from activities with global pop group KATSEYE has generated controversy weeks after HYBE and Geffen issued a statement saying she is stepping away “to focus on her health and wellbeing.” The announcement, shared on the group’s official Weverse channel, did not include a timeline for her return, and fans quickly reacted with uncertainty about the circumstances of her absence.
Manon, the sole Black member of the six-piece act formed via HYBE’s Dream Academy competition, then released her own message on Weverse, writing, “I’m healthy, I’m okay, and I’m taking care of myself … Sometimes things unfold in ways we don’t fully control, but I’m trusting the bigger picture,” a note that appeared to contradict some interpretations of the label’s initial announcement.
That disconnect fueled speculation online, with sections of the fandom known as Eyekons suggesting that Manon’s hiatus might not be fully voluntary and linking her exit to broader debates about how Black women are treated in pop groups. Some fans began pulling up receipts about alleged unfair treatments given to the Switzerland-born artist, arguing that Manon was repeatedly sidelined in dance choreography and ad appearances.
The controversy expanded when clips and posts alleging racism drew attention from major Black artists. Artists such as SZA, Halle Bailey, Normani, Leigh-Anne Pinnock and Melody Thornton have shared messages of support on social platforms, with Leigh-Anne writing on X, “We need to protect each other,” and Thornton posting “We see you” alongside images of Manon.
Critics of the label also pointed to social media activity — including Manon liking posts about discrimination and mistreatment — as evidence that the hiatus had triggered deeper conversation about race, representation and industry pressure. While HYBE has not issued further clarification, the drama has amplified fan debate about the future of KATSEYE and Manon’s place in the group.