Manon Bannerman, a member of the global girl group KATSEYE, has publicly addressed recent online rumors regarding her potential departure from the band. In a social media post on Monday, the singer also spoke out against the racist treatment she has reportedly faced from some viewers since the group’s formation on the Netflix reality competition “The Debut: Dream Academy.”
Statement on Social Media
Bannerman shared a written statement and a video message with her followers. In it, she directly confronted the speculation about her leaving KATSEYE, which was formed by Hybe and Geffen Records. She stated unequivocally that she has no plans to exit the group. The artist expressed her dedication to her bandmates and their shared goals, aiming to quell the circulating rumors.
Alongside her denial of the exit rumors, Bannerman’s message took a serious tone as she discussed the racial abuse she has encountered. She described receiving hateful comments and discriminatory remarks targeted at her identity. The singer emphasized the emotional toll of such treatment, calling for more respectful and supportive engagement from the public and fans.
Background and Group Context
KATSEYE was assembled through the 2023 hybrid audition program “The Debut: Dream Academy,” a joint venture between Hybe and Geffen Records. The six-member multinational group, consisting of members from the Philippines, Switzerland, the United States, and South Korea, debuted in November 2023. Their formation and journey were documented for a global audience on Netflix, instantly placing them under intense international scrutiny.
As a Black woman in a globally promoted pop group, Bannerman’s experience highlights ongoing issues of racism and discrimination within the international music industry and fan communities. The incident underscores the challenges faced by artists of color, particularly those operating in cross-cultural entertainment spaces with diverse fanbases.
Industry and Fan Reactions
The statement has sparked significant discussion online, with many fans and industry observers expressing support for Bannerman. The official social media channels for KATSEYE and its label have not yet released a formal statement regarding the matter. However, fan-led campaigns using hashtags to show support for the singer have trended on various platforms.
This is not the first time a member of a major Hybe-associated group has publicly addressed malicious online behavior. The company has previously implemented legal measures against defamation and hate speech targeting its artists. The response from Hybe and Geffen Records to this specific situation remains anticipated by industry watchers.
Looking Ahead
KATSEYE is currently active, with recent promotional activities for their debut project. The group’s management and labels are expected to monitor the situation closely. Standard protocol in such cases often involves assessing the need for a formal public response, providing support for the affected artist, and potentially pursuing legal action against the source of severe harassment. The group’s scheduled activities are likely to proceed as planned, with Bannerman’s statement serving as her primary personal address on the matter for the time being.
Source: Mashable
