Katseye Releases New Video Without Manon Bannerman
Girl group Katseye have released their first music video without member Manon Bannerman, following her announcement that she would be taking a break from the group.
The group, which was formed in 2023 on the reality competition series Dream Academy, uploaded the video for their techno-pop single "Pinky Up," featuring only the five current members.
The vibrant and colourful music video accompanies the group's preparations to perform at the Coachella music festival in California this weekend.
Manon Bannerman announced her decision to step back from Katseye in February, assuring fans that she was "healthy" and "taking care of myself."
"Sometimes things unfold in ways we don't fully control, but I'm trusting the bigger picture," the 23-year-old Swiss-Ghanian singer said at the time.
The group stated that the decision was reached after "open and thoughtful conversations together."
Katseye confirmed they would continue with their scheduled performances during Bannerman's absence and expressed that they "look forward to being together again when the time is right."
No specific timeline has been provided for Bannerman's return, and her absence from the latest music video suggests she will not be part of the group's Coachella performance.
Record label HBYE confirmed to The Korea Herald earlier this week that Bannerman "remains on hiatus."
Manon Bannerman Addresses Fans Amid Hiatus
Writing on the WeVerse fandom page earlier this week, Bannerman thanked fans for their support and patience during her break.
"Thank you so much for all the love and support you've been sending my way.
I'm really grateful for the patience and kindness everyone has shown during this time. [The record label] and I are having positive conversations and I feel supported. I'm happy and I'm healthy. I'll share more soon. Thank you for always being there for me."
Despite this message, some fans have requested greater transparency, noting that Bannerman has removed all references to Katseye from her Instagram profile, which has led to speculation about a possible permanent departure from the group.
Fan Reactions and Group Dynamics
Katseye's fanbase, known as Eyekons, have expressed their disappointment on YouTube and social media regarding Bannerman's absence from the new music video. Some fans commented, "We want Manon."
Others indicated they did not anticipate her hiatus would result in her absence from new music and videos, and criticized the lack of explanation or acknowledgment regarding her absence in the latest video.
The energetic and colourful video for "Pinky Up" amassed over six million views on YouTube within 24 hours of its release.
Katseye's Career and Current Lineup
Katseye, consisting of Daniela Avanzini, Lara Raj, Megan Skiendiel, Sophia Laforteza, and Yoonchae Jeung alongside Bannerman, launched their career in summer 2024 with the single "Debut," followed by their breakthrough hit "Touch."
Since then, they have achieved further chart success with songs such as "Gabriela," "Internet Girl," and "Gnarly," and have released two EPs.
Group Statement on Manon's Hiatus
In a recent interview with Zane Lowe, the remaining members expressed their support for Bannerman.
"Manon has been on hiatus, and we love her so much!
We know she's doing well, and she got to talk to the fans about it. We're just really excited and rooting for all of us and each other.
We've gotten through so much together... we all just want each other to win, be OK, and feel good. She's our sister forever, and we love her so much. We built this together, so we want to give her all the space, whatever she needs."
has reached out to representatives for Katseye, Bannerman, and the Coachella music festival for further comment.
