Sophia of KATSEYE Announces Short Break From Group Activities to Prioritize Wellness
By Website Content Manager
The announcement comes six months after Manon Bannerman took a temporary break from the group.
Sophia Laforteza is temporarily stepping away from KATSEYE as she takes time to focus on her mental health and overall well-being.
The 23-year-old singer and her group announced the news on Friday, Aug. 7, explaining that Laforteza will be unable to take part in upcoming promotional activities while she prioritizes her health.
According to a statement from KATSEYE, Laforteza has been receiving extensive support and has consulted with medical professionals, who recommended that she take an extended period of rest and continue receiving care. The group emphasized that her health and long-term well-being remain the top priority.
Although Laforteza is eager to return to the stage and perform with her fellow members, KATSEYE said it will continue monitoring her condition and supporting her throughout her recovery. Her situation is expected to be reassessed in September.
The group also expressed gratitude to fans for their patience and support, adding that they look forward to welcoming Laforteza back when she is ready.
Laforteza addressed her fans separately through Instagram Stories, acknowledging that making the decision to step away was difficult. She explained that performing and connecting with fans are deeply important to her, but she has come to understand that taking care of her health must come first.
The singer did not reveal details about her specific health concerns. However, she thanked supporters for their patience, understanding and continued encouragement during this period.
Laforteza also assured fans that she intends to focus on recovering properly and working toward a strong return to the group.
Her temporary break comes just a week before KATSEYE is scheduled to release its new EP, Wild. It also follows fellow member Manon Bannerman’s own temporary hiatus, which was announced six months earlier as she took time to focus on her health and well-being.
KATSEYE previously performed at Coachella without Bannerman in April. In a June interview with Allure, Laforteza spoke about her groupmate’s return, stressing that Bannerman should be given the freedom and time necessary to decide when she is ready.
Laforteza said the group did not want to pressure Bannerman or make assumptions about her return, emphasizing that she deserves the space needed to focus on herself and that she would always be welcomed back by KATSEYE.