What Is Happening With Katseye (Manon)?

On February 20, 2026, KATSEYE's management, HYBE and Geffen Records, released a statement announcing that Manon would be taking a "temporary hiatus" from the group's activities.

The official statement reads: "After open and thoughtful conversations together, we are sharing that Manon will be taking a temporary hiatus from group activities to focus on her health and wellbeing. We fully support this decision. KATSEYE remains committed to showing up for one another and for the fans who mean everything to us. The group will continue scheduled activities during this time, and we look forward to being together again when the time is right. Thank you to our EYEKONS for your continued love, patience, and understanding."

Following the management's announcement, Manon shared her own messages with fans on Weverse and Instagram.

On Weverse, she posted: "I want to hear this from me, 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. Thank you for standing by me."

Later, on February 26, 2026, she posted a mirror selfie on her Instagram Story with the text: "I love you all more than words could describe."

In an interview with The Cut published in February 2026, shortly before the hiatus announcement, Manon addressed the criticism she has faced for missing rehearsals. She discussed the differences in work-life balance between Switzerland, where she was raised, and America.

Manon stated in the interview: "America has a very different culture when it comes to work-life balance. You guys are all about grind and hustle. In Switzerland, if you're sick, you take a day off. No one's going to expect you to work."

She also commented on the perceptions of her work ethic, saying: "Being called lazy, especially as a Black girl, is not fair. Now I feel like I always need to put in extra work to prove something, even though I really don't."

The situation has led to significant speculation among fans, who have noticed several online interactions.

1. Social Media Likes: Fans observed that Manon's Instagram account liked a post made by commentator Simply Simone which featured a collage of girl groups including Katseye. The caption of the post read: "Another Black girl subjected to racism and label mistreatment yet again."

2. Comments by Family Members: A comment on an Instagram post, reportedly made by the father of fellow KATSEYE member Daniela, drew attention from fans before it was deleted. The comment stated: "The SHOW MUST GO ON! With or without a member. KATSEYE IS BIGGER THAN ONE GIRL." Another reported comment by him suggested "five is ok too."

These actions have caused a rift in the fandom, with many fans speculating that Manon's hiatus is not solely due to health reasons but may involve mistreatment or racial bias, while others support the company's official stance.

A visible wave of solidarity for Manon has emerged from other established artists in the music industry.

● SZA: R&B star SZA commented on one of Manon's posts, calling her a "perfect girl."

● Chlöe Bailey: Singer and performer Chlöe Bailey commented, "I'm sad about Manon".

● Normani: Former Fifth Harmony member Normani followed Manon on Instagram.

● Melody Thornton: Formerly of The Pussycat Dolls, Melody Thornton publicly acknowledged Manon, writing "We see you" on Instagram.

● Leigh-Anne Pinnock: Formerly of Little Mix, Leigh-Anne followed Manon and re-posted a fan thread about the situation with the message, "We need to protect each other."

For now, KATSEYE will continue their scheduled activities, including their debut headlining tour and planned performances at festivals like Lollapalooza South America and Coachella, as a five-member group. Manon's future with the group remains unconfirmed beyond the "temporary" nature of the announced hiatus.

Of course many fans are very upset and we are too. We give out full support to Manon and hope she returns very soon. WE LOVE YOU MANON!