Global girl group KATSEYE has been thrown into turmoil after member Manon Bannerman suddenly stepped away, igniting a fierce debate about racism that is shaking fans and the music industry alike.
The controversy erupted after Bannerman liked a social media post claiming she was the victim of “disgusting hatred” because of her race. Bannerman, who has Ghanaian and Swiss Italian heritage, is the only Black member of the multinational group, making the situation even more sensitive and widely discussed.
As speculation intensified, Bannerman broke her silence to reassure fans and push back against circulating narratives.
“I want you to hear this from me, I am healthy, I am okay, and I am taking care of myself,” she said, thanking supporters for standing by her during the storm.
Her pause has triggered a wave of public support from major artists, including SZA, Chloe Bailey, Normani, Leigh Anne Pinnock, and Melody Thornton. Fans across social media platforms have launched intense discussions about racism and colorism in global girl groups, turning the situation into one of the most talked about controversies in pop music right now.
KATSEYE was created through the reality show “The Debut: Dream Academy,” a joint project by Hybe and Geffen Records designed to build a global K pop style group. Bannerman, a former model, had previously faced criticism over her experience and discipline during training, which was also documented in the group’s Netflix series.
Now, with Bannerman stepping back and emotions running high, questions are growing about her future in the group and whether KATSEYE can recover from a controversy that has exposed deeper tensions behind the scenes.
