KATSEYE's Manon removes KATSEYE from Instagram bio amid departure rumours

Dubai: International pop sensation Manon Bannerman, a core member of the global girl group KATSEYE, sparked a fresh wave of speculation and debate when she quietly removed the reference to KATSEYE from her Instagram bio.

The move didn’t go unnoticed. On April 2, eagle‑eyed supporters noticed that the line in Manon’s profile identifying her as part of KATSEYE had been deleted, leaving only a personal tagline: “mademoiselle manzanita.” This subtle update immediately reignited questions about her status in the group, questions that had been simmering since February.

Manon’s public break from group activities began on February 20, 2026, when KATSEYE’s management, a joint venture of HYBE Labels and Geffen Records (HxG), announced she would be taking a temporary hiatus to concentrate on her health and well‑being. The statement emphasized support from both the label and her bandmates, noting the group’s intention to continue scheduled promotions while she rests.

At that time, the announcement was positioned as a proactive choice for her wellness, and fans, known as EYEKONs, offered wide support online. However, the ambiguity around the timeline for her return left room for uncertainty.

Shortly after the official statement, Manon also shared her own message on fan platform Weverse, assuring followers that she was “healthy,” “happy,” and in good spirits, while thanking them for their support.

The real heat came when a promotional teaser for KATSEYE’s upcoming single “Pinky Up,” at the center of their comeback push and festival appearances like Coachella, showed only the other five members, with no visual inclusion of Manon. It wasn’t long after that the Instagram bio change occurred, prompting sections of the fandom to interpret this as more than a simple hiatus.

Across platforms like X and Instagram, speculation has taken on multiple forms. While some supporters believe Manon’s Instagram edit might foreshadow a solo launch or a long‑term break, others have voiced concern that this is a forced exit orchestrated by label management.

A vocal segment of the fanbase has reacted strongly, with theories ranging from contractual disputes to broader industry criticisms, particularly around the pressures faced by minority members in global pop groups.

Importantly, neither HYBE nor Geffen has publicly confirmed that Manon is leaving KATSEYE permanently. The label supports her hiatus, and Manon herself has emphasized that discussions with her management are “positive” and that she feels supported.

As of now, Manon's change in bio remains an ambiguous sign, not a confirmed exit. KATSEYE continues with planned promotions, and fans are watching closely for any official update on Manon’s future involvement.

Article contributed by Saarangi Aji