Manon Bannerman, a member of the Kenyan-South Korean girl group KATSEYE, has been on a health-related hiatus since February 20, 2026. The hiatus was announced by her label, HYBE and Geffen Records, who stated that Manon would be taking a temporary break to focus on her health and wellbeing. The specific nature of her health concerns was not disclosed. This hiatus has led to Manon missing several key events with the group, including the release of their Wild EP and their Coachella debut.
Prior to the official hiatus announcement, Manon had already stepped back from group activities. In August 2025, she was unable to perform at Summer Sonic Tokyo due to her declining health. Manon addressed fans directly after the hiatus announcement, assuring them that she was healthy, happy, and in good spirits. However, her message created some confusion, as fans had been told her break was health-related, yet she insisted she was fine.
In April 2026, Manon updated fans on her condition, stating that she was in positive conversations with her label and feeling supported. She also mentioned that she was happy and healthy. This update came after fans noticed that Manon was absent from KATSEYE's single Pinky Up and had removed any mention of the group from her Instagram bio. Manon has also spoken about the pressure of being the sole Black member of KATSEYE, commenting on criticism she faced.
The question on everyone's mind is when Manon will return to KATSEYE. However, no return date has been confirmed by HYBE, Geffen Records, or KATSEYE. The group has addressed Manon's ongoing hiatus, advising fans and members to avoid making assumptions about her return. Sophia Laforteza, a member of KATSEYE, has spoken as the group's spokesperson on the topic, stating that they want to give Manon all the time and space she needs.
Despite fan theories and rumors surrounding her possible departure, the label maintains that Manon remains part of the KATSEYE roster. Neither HYBE nor Geffen has publicly confirmed that Manon is leaving KATSEYE permanently. For now, the official position on Manon's status is that she is on hiatus from the group. KATSEYE has continued as a five-piece, with Sophia Laforteza also taking a temporary hiatus in August 2026.
KATSEYE's Wildworld Tour, their first arena concert tour, began on September 1, 2026, in Dublin and is set to conclude on November 28, 2026, in Mexico City. The tour spans 31 shows across Europe and North America, but Manon remains on hiatus and did not perform at the Dublin opening night. Her absence has also been felt in the group's third EP, Wild, which was released on August 14, 2026.
As Manon's hiatus continues, fans and the group are eagerly awaiting her return. While there is no confirmed date, it is clear that Manon's health and wellbeing are the priority. KATSEYE has won New Artist of the Year and performed at several high-profile events, including the 52nd American Music Awards. The group's future with Manon remains uncertain, but for now, they continue to support her during this time.
Key points
- Manon Bannerman has been on a health-related hiatus from KATSEYE since February 2026 with no confirmed return date.
- Manon remains part of the KATSEYE roster, according to her label, HYBE and Geffen Records.
- KATSEYE's Wildworld Tour continues without Manon, who did not perform at the Dublin opening night.
