Katseye’s Sophia Laforteza announces break from girl group months after Manon Bannerman’s exit

Katseye’s Sophia Laforteza has announced that she is taking a break from the popular girl group to focus on her health.

The Katseye leader took to Instagram to share the news, saying, “It truly breaks my heart to have to miss out on a lot.”

“You know how much I love being on stage, performing, and sharing these moments with you,” Laforteza wrote in the story posted on August 7.

“Making this decision wasn’t easy, but I’m learning that health has to come first. I’m realizing that if I don’t take care of my mind and body now, I won’t be able to keep doing what I love the most for so long.”

The 23-year-old singer addressed her fans, known as Eyekons, saying, “Thank you for being so patient, understanding, and always showing me so much love. It means more to me than I could ever say. I promise I’m going to work as hard as I can to get through this, heal properly, and come back stronger.”

“Til then, please continue to be kind and give KATSEYE all your love and support as we fulfill our promise to show up for you in every way we can. I’ll be here as one of the EYEKONS in the meantime with y’all, See you soon.”

Laforteza has been a member of the girl group since 2023, when the band was formed through the reality show “The Debut: Dream Academy” under HYBE and Geffen Records.

The announcement comes nearly six months after Manon Bannerman, 24, announced her departure from the group to focus on her health and well-being.

The group announced the Swiss singer’s exit in February via Weverse, saying, “After open and thoughtful conversations together, we are sharing that Manon will be taking a temporary hiatus from group activities to focus on her health and wellbeing.”

“We fully support this decision,” the statement continued, assuring that “KATSEYE remains committed to showing up for one another and for the fans who mean everything to us. The group will continue scheduled activities during this time, and we look forward to being together again when the time is right.”

It is unclear whether or not Laforteza will return to the group for their upcoming Wildworld Tour, which is set to begin in Dublin on September 1.

The tour will feature the group’s third EP “Wild,” which releases on August 14.

Katseye remains with four active members: Daniela Avanzini, Lara Raj, Megan Skiendiel and Yoonchae Jeung.