Haven’t you heard? On February 20th, Katseye member and pop idol Meret Manon Sarpong Bannerman, known simply as Manon, announced her hiatus, sparking controversy among fans.
Many supporters are asking questions, as the singer seems to have gone completely M.I.A. It looks like Manon may have taken the lyric, “I’ll dip and dash” a little too literally.
Katseye is a six-member group born from the global reality competition series “Pop Star Academy,” a collaboration between music labels HYBE and Geffen Records.
20 contestants around the globe were featured, but only six got the coveted spot for being in the group. Those six included Manon Bannerman, Daniela Avanzini, Yoonchae, Lara Raj, Sophia Laforteza, and lastly Megan Skiendiel.
“When [HYBE] announced [Manon’s] temporary hiatus, I felt really sad and worried. At the same time, I understand that sometimes people need time to focus on their health," stated freshman Juli Ndungu.
Speculation about the true nature of Manon’s hiatus interested fans, some even suggesting a group disbandment.
Some even went as far as to compare her hiatus to Camila Cabello, a former Fifth Harmony member who departed to pursue a solo career.
Manon’s temporary hiatus was prompted by her need to prioritize her well-being, sharing that she’s, “doing okay and focusing on [herself].” Manon proceeded to thank her fans for their concern and support, stating that she’ll ”Be back soon.”
Fans speculated Manon's hiatus due to alleged HYBE mistreatment and racism after she liked a video on instagram suggesting she was being mistreated.
Not only that, but fans pointed out that Manon was excluded from the group’s “Gabriela” Performance Video, where they didn’t reschedule when Manon had an ankle sprain.
However, many people don’t believe that Manon’s hiatus is a major issue.
“THE SHOW MUST GO ON! With or without a member. Katseye is bigger than one girl.” Commented Rafael Avanizini, fellow bandmate Daniela’s father, under Manon’s hiatus post on Instagram.
Rafael’s comment about Manon’s hiatus post left many fans angry at his unprofessional behavior, which caused him to resort to a public apology for the comment.
“If I'm being completely honest, the comments that Daniela's father wrote about Manon's hiatus were insensitive, especially in the context that he had used them…saying it during a moment where a member was stepping away for health reasons can be seen as dismissive.” Shared by junior, Trisha Ponce.
Even so, hateful comments were directed towards Manon, calling her lazy due to being noticeably missing on occasion due to an illness or injury.
“Being called lazy, especially as a Black girl, is not fair. Now I feel like I always need to put in extra work to prove something, even though I really don’t.” Stated Manon, weighing in on the unfair reputation the internet constantly narrates about her.
“[It’s] unfair that Manon was called “lazy” because of her illnesses and injuries. Being sick or hurt can make it very hard to perform, and that is not something someone can control.” Ndugu expressed.
Even during Manon’s time at Pop Star Academy, she had her fair share of being labeled as “arrogant”, constantly facing scrutiny and criticism from instructors and fellow trainees, with some questioning her commitment to the program.
While fans continue to inquire more about Manon's hiatus, artists like SZA, Halle Bailey, and Normani have shown support for Manon during the whole situation.
While Manon’s hiatus continues to spark debate, fans remain loyal to her as they hope for her swift return and well-being.
The controversy highlights the challenges faced by artists, particularly black women, in the music industry. With support from fellow artists and fans, Manon’s voice is being heard, and her message of self-care and resilience resonates louder than ever.
