Katseye’s Sophia Laforteza Stepping Away for Mental‑Health Recovery

Mon Sep 14 2026 09:51:55 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Filipino‑American singer Sophia Laforteza pauses her work with global girl group Katseye to focus on mental health, following similar hiatus by bandmate Manon Bannerman.

Katseye vocalist Sophia Laforteza has announced a temporary break from the popular girl group amid mounting mental‑health concerns. The departure follows Manon Bannerman’s earlier hiatus and comes at a time when the group is navigating the fallout from numerous death threats and high public expectations. Lyric signed by record labels HYBE x Geffen, the decision underscores the prioritisation of artists’ well‑being. Laforteza stated on Instagram that she is taking time to rest and heal, promising a return stronger than before. The announcement marks the second member exit this year, leaving Katseye to continue touring and promoting with four active members.

Sophia Laforteza of Katseye has announced a temporary pause from the group, prioritising her mental health.

The decision follows less than six months after fellow member Manon Bannerman began a hiatus. Katseye, known for hits such as “Gnarly”, “Pinky Up” and “Gabriela”, has become a global phenomenon since its 2023 debut.

HYBE x Geffen record labels confirmed that “Sophia will be temporarily unable to participate in upcoming promotional activities.” They emphasised that she is receiving “the utmost support” and consulting medical professionals, advised to take extended rest and ongoing care “to ensure a full recovery”. The situation will be reassessed in September.

On Instagram, Laforteza shared: "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."

She added: "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."

The girl group was formed with six members in 2023 and was nominated for two Grammy Awards last year. With two members stepping away, Katseye will continue touring and promotional plans with four active members.

Katseye has previously warned of high‑risk online harassment, with more than a thousand death threats reported after their debut. Within the group, decisions about “open and thoughtful conversations together” shape their approach to health and safety, as noted by the label during Bannerman’s earlier announcement.