Full Breakdown
KATSEYE Continues as Quartet Amid Dual Hiatuses
8/20/2026, 1:47:32 AM
Core Event: Sophia Laforteza and Manon Bannerman Enter Temporary Hiatus
The six-member global girl group KATSEYE, created by Hybe and Geffen Records, is promoting its EP Wild as a quartet after Sophia Laforteza and Manon Bannerman were placed on “temporary hiatus” for mental-health reasons. Hybe × Geffen announced the decision on August 7. The active members are Lara Raj, Yoonchae Jeung, Daniela Avanzini and Megan Skiendiel.
Background & Context
KATSEYE formed after the 2023 survival show *Dream Academy: The Debut*. Since debuting in 2024, the group has charted with “Gnarly” and “Gabriela,” the latter earning Grammy nominations for Best Pop Duo/Group Performance and Best New Artist. The EP *Wild* (2026) received MTV VMA nominations for Best K-Pop and Best Choreography (“Pinky Up”).
Timeline
- February 1 2026 – Sophia appears at the 68th Grammy Awards; Hybe × Geffen confirms her hiatus.
- August 4 2026 – Four members attend the *Katseye: Wild Hearts* screening in Los Angeles.
- August 7 – Official statement outlines Sophia’s temporary inability to join promotions.
- April 2 – Manon posts on Weverse, saying she feels “healthy” and “supported.”
Official Statements & Responses
The label said it will “reassess [Sophia’s] condition in September” and provide an update.
Lara Raj, on the TODAY Show, reiterated the group’s stance on member well-being.
Verbatim Quotes
- “As Katseye, it’s so important to us to always prioritize our well-being. We stand by Sophia and Manon through and through. We ride for them.” — Lara Raj
- “It’s really nice to be able to talk out feelings rather than holding it in. I think that’s the biggest thing I’ve learned.” — Megan Skiendiel
Data & Statistics
Why It Matters
The dual hiatus reduces KATSEYE’s promotional lineup, prompting adjustments to live performances and fan events. Fans (“Eyekons”) have voiced concern over the indefinite duration, highlighting mental-health considerations within the K-pop industry.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
- Megan Skiendiel’s status: Capital FM reports a one-day illness break on August 16, while earlier coverage noted a 2024 back-injury hiatus.
- Return timelines: Hybe × Geffen plans a September health update for Sophia; no comparable date is given for Manon.
