KATSEYE addresses speculation over Manon's future with group

KATSEYE is asking fans for patience as Manon Bannerman's health-related absence stretches into its fifth month.

In an Allure cover story published Thursday, June 25, bandmate Sophia Laforteza addressed ongoing speculation about Bannerman's future with the pop group after its creators, HYBE x Geffen, announced in February that she would be stepping away from activities to "focus on her health and well-being."

"Because we did announce that it is about her well-being, it's not our place or anybody else's place to rush her," Laforteza said. "We want to give her all the time that she needs, all the space that she needs, and so we don't want to make any assumptions, set anything in stone… She really deserves that, and the door is always open."

Fans on social media have speculated that Bannerman's ongoing break could signal a possible departure from the group.

"If I was in their place I would be asking too, and so we understand," Laforteza addressed the rumors. "But what we can say is that we wish that you could just keep extending love and support and patience and all those things, because all of us deserve that. Anybody does."

Bannerman gave an update on her health Friday, June 26, posting a photo on Instagram.

"Never been healthier, happier, or more grateful," the 24-year-old wrote. "Grateful for the people who love me, care for me, make me laugh, and remind me what really matters. Feeling very lucky to be here."

Her last public appearance with KATSEYE came on Feb. 4, when the group performed on "The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon."

Later that month, HYBE x Geffen announced that Bannerman would be taking time off.

"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," the statement said. "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."

KATSEYE, which also includes Yoonchae Jeong, Megan Skiendiel, Lara Raj and Daniela Avanzini, was formed through the 2023 reality competition series "The Debut: Dream Academy," a collaboration between HYBE, the South Korean entertainment company behind BTS, and U.S.-based Geffen Records.