Manon’s Katseye Hiatus: Black Girl Group Members Deserve Better Than This

Rolling Stone

by Larisha Paul

February 25, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Manon Bannerman’s decision to take a hiatus from her group Katseye has sparked discussions about the challenges faced by Black women in the entertainment industry. As the sole Black member of the group, Bannerman has experienced unique pressures, including racist backlash and death threats since the group’s debut in 2024. Her temporary leave, announced by HYBE and Geffen Records, comes amid reports that she is focusing on her health and wellbeing. While some fans speculate about the reasons behind her departure, many Black women in entertainment have rallied behind her, sharing their own experiences with systemic racism and isolation. Bannerman’s journey to fame began when casting director Michelle Kim discovered her on social media despite her lack of formal training. She was part of a highly competitive process that included over 120,000 applicants for the Netflix reality series *Dream Academy*, which led to the formation of Katseye. The group, consisting of members from diverse backgrounds, has faced significant backlash since its debut, with Bannerman feeling particularly isolated as the only Black member. This experience resonates with other Black women in entertainment who have shared similar struggles. Sacha Lecca/Rolling Stone highlights how Bannerman’s hiatus reflects a broader issue of racism and isolation faced by Black women in girl groups. The Pussycat Dolls’ Melody Thornton, for instance, recalled her own experiences with being labeled the “weakest link” during her time in the group. These stories underscore the systemic pressures placed on Black women to constantly prove themselves, often at the expense of their mental and emotional health. Bannerman’s decision to step back from Katseye is not just about individual well-being but also about challenging the norms that force marginalized

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Originally published on Rolling Stone on 2/25/2026