KATSEYE Members Show Support for Sophia Laforteza and Manon Bannerman During Their Respective Absences: “We Ride for Them”
By Website Content Manager
Published by Cel Manero from Global One Media Inc.
Sophia Laforteza revealed earlier this month that she would be stepping away from the group temporarily to focus on her mental health and overall well-being.
KATSEYE may currently be performing with fewer members, but the group continues to show strong support for everyone in the lineup.
Manon Bannerman stepped away from the K-pop girl group about six months ago to focus on her health and well-being. Earlier this month, Sophia Laforteza likewise announced that she would temporarily take a step back from group activities to prioritize her “mental health and wellness.”
During KATSEYE’s appearance on the Today show’s Citi Summer Concert Series on Friday, Aug. 14, the remaining members — Lara Raj, Daniela Avanzini, Yoonchae and Megan Skiendiel — were asked whether they were still communicating with Sophia and Manon.
“Of course,” Lara said, emphasizing that supporting one another remains important to the group. She explained that KATSEYE believes in putting their well-being first and continues to stand behind both Sophia and Manon. “We ride for them,” she added.
Lara also shared a heartfelt message for their two bandmates, saying, “We love you guys so much always!”
During another interview on the 3rd Hour of Today, the members discussed the importance of taking care of themselves while dealing with the demands of their busy performance schedule.
Megan reflected on what she has learned about rest and self-care, saying that taking breaks is essential. As a dancer, she noted that it can be easy to get caught up in a constant cycle of rehearsals, performances and other commitments. She stressed that making time to recharge and heal, both mentally and physically, can sometimes be overlooked.
Sophia announced on Aug. 7 that she would be taking time away from KATSEYE’s promotional activities. In her statement, she expressed how difficult it was to miss performances and other moments with the group, particularly because she loves being onstage. However, she explained that she had come to understand the importance of putting her health first so she could continue pursuing her passion in the future.
KATSEYE also addressed Sophia’s temporary absence, explaining that the decision was made following consultations with medical professionals.
The group said Sophia was receiving extensive support and had been advised to take an extended period of rest and continue receiving care to support her recovery. While Sophia was eager to return to performing with her fellow members, KATSEYE emphasized that the health, safety and long-term well-being of its artists would remain the top priority.
