KATSEYE announces Manon’s hiatus to focus on health
On February 20, 2026, KATSEYE announced that member Manon would take a temporary hiatus to focus on her mental health and well-being. The statement was shared at 6:45 p.m. ET through the group’s Weverse fan community by HYBE and Geffen. The post explained that the decision followed open and thoughtful conversations with Manon. In addition, it was also confirmed that scheduled group activities would continue as a five-member group. Finally, the statement thanked KATSEYE fans (known as EYEKONS) for their understanding.
A few hours later, Manon reportedly sent a message through Weverse DMs saying she was healthy and “trusting the bigger picture.” Born in Switzerland, Manon Bannerman first gained attention in 2021 through fashion and lifestyle content on TikTok and Instagram. As the group’s only Black member, her hiatus has also provoked debates about race and representation in the music industry.
Fellow artists publicly share messages of support
Several artists quickly showed support following the announcement on February 20, 2026. Leigh-Anne from Little Mix posted on X, writing that “We need to protect each other.” She replied to a fan who noted that she, Fifth Harmony’s Normani, and Manon are now following each other on Instagram, following the recent news.
Then, SZA commented “Perfect girl” under Manon’s latest Instagram post on February 22, 2026. After that, Kehlani wrote a supportive comment on February 24, 2026, encouraging Manon in all caps, saying, “Ball out time.” Similarly, Chlöe Bailey shared on her Discord server on February 22, 2026, that she felt sad about the situation. On February 23, 2026, Melody Thornton also posted a portrait of Manon on Instagram with the caption “We see you.” Together, these responses show clear solidarity from black female artists in the industry.
More voices join to support Manon
Following the support from Little Mix’s Leigh-Anne, SZA, and Kehlani, more black artists voiced their support for Manon in different ways. On February 23, Grammy-winning comedian Tiffany Haddish posted “Queen things” under Manon’s most recent Instagram post. On February 24, two-time Brit Award nominee and rising pop star Rachel Chinouriri called Manon “Superstar” in the comments section of her Instagram post.
Black men also joined in solidarity, with Shade of Soulidified, which was formed through Netflix’s Building the Band) posting a heartfelt video message to his TikTok page and dedicating his video to Manon. Then, NAACP Image Award-winning actor and the eldest son of rap icon Ice Cube, O’Shea Jackson Jr., said his heart hurts because of the current situation with Manon.