KATSEYE member Sophia Laforteza will not join the group for the European and United Kingdom leg of The Wildworld Tour. The announcement came just one day before the tour kicks off in Dublin on September 1, 2026. HYBE x Geffen Records confirmed the news through the group’s official Weverse and social media channels on August 30.
The 23-year-old singer initially announced a temporary hiatus on August 7 after receiving medical advice to take extended rest for her mental health and overall well-being. Her condition was set to be reassessed in September, but the company has now confirmed she will remain absent for the entire European run.
Sophia personally addressed fans with an emotional message, explaining her decision and asking for understanding. Her absence means KATSEYE will perform with only four members during the Europe and UK shows, as fellow member Manon Bannerman has also been on hiatus since February.
Sophia Opens Up About Her Hiatus and Recovery
Sophia took to her Instagram Stories shortly after the official announcement to share her thoughts directly with EYEKONS, the group’s fandom. She expressed how difficult it was to miss the tour but emphasized the importance of prioritizing her health.
“I can’t express enough how much I want to participate in this tour and perform for you all. I have to remind myself every day that our health and mental well-being should always be prioritized.”
The singer revealed she has been undergoing ongoing treatment and is doing everything possible to recover.
“I’ve been in ongoing treatment and doing everything I can to stay healthy, occupied, and happy. You can’t pour from an empty cup. It’s important to care for yourself.”
Sophia also made it clear that she has received nothing but support from her label, her bandmates, and those around her. She assured fans she has been watching the other members prepare and believes they will deliver an amazing performance.
“I can’t wait until I return and share the stage with my sisters again. They’re gonna put on an extraordinary performance for you, EYEKONS. Trust me, I’ve been watching, and they’re absolutely giving!”
She ended her message with a promise to return when she is ready, saying, “See you soon, EYEKONS. I love you all so much. Thank you for understanding.”
HYBE x Geffen Releases Official Statement on Sophia Absence
HYBE x Geffen Records issued a formal statement through KATSEYE’s official channels confirming Sophia will not participate in The Wildworld Tour dates across Europe and the UK from September 1 through September 17.
The statement read: “Sophia is focusing on her well-being, and the company remains fully committed to providing her with all the support and resources needed. Sophia will not be participating in THE WILDWORLD TOUR in Europe and the UK scheduled from September 1 through September 17.”
The label also asked fans for their understanding, emphasizing that the artist’s health remains the top priority.
“We sincerely ask for EYEKONS’ warm understanding, as our highest priority will always be the health and long-term well-being of our artists. We will share further updates as they become available. Please continue to send your love, warmth, and support to Sophia and KATSEYE.”
The company had previously announced Sophia’s hiatus on August 7, stating that medical professionals had advised her to take dedicated time for extended rest and ongoing care. At that time, they mentioned her health would be reassessed in September.
KATSEYE Continues with Four Members as Second Member Remains on Hiatus
Sophia’s absence marks the second time KATSEYE will perform without a full six-member lineup. Manon Bannerman stepped away from group activities in February to focus on her own health and well-being. She has not yet returned to the group.
The remaining four members – Daniela Avanzini, Lara Raj, Megan Skiendiel, and Yoonchae – have continued promotional activities in their absence. During a guest appearance on NBC’s Today show on August 15, Lara spoke about the group’s support for their absent members.
“As KATSEYE, it’s so important to us to always prioritize our well-being. We stand by Sophia and Manon through and through. We ride for them.”
The group’s current active lineup of four will perform the European dates, which include stops in Dublin, London, Manchester, Paris, Amsterdam, Cologne, Antwerp, and Copenhagen. The North American leg is scheduled to begin on October 13 in Miami and will run through November 27 in Mexico City.
Recent Setbacks Add to Group Challenges
The tour news comes during a challenging period for KATSEYE. The group recently had to cancel a scheduled performance at Olivia Rodrigo’s Daisy Chain Fields festival on August 29 after Megan Skiendiel sprained her ankle during tour rehearsals.
Megan addressed fans at the festival, saying, “We’re so disappointed that we can’t perform today on stage, but my ankle is on hiatus. But our hearts are definitely not.” She added that the group was sending love to Olivia Rodrigo and the festival community.
Despite these lineup changes and setbacks, KATSEYE has not indicated any plans to cancel or postpone the European tour dates. The group will proceed with the four available members.
Fan Reactions Mixed as Backlash Emerges Toward HYBE x Geffen
Following the announcement, fans took to social media to express their reactions. Many expressed disappointment but wished Sophia a speedy recovery.
One fan wrote on X: “Katseye is bigger than that ONE member, Sophia. Four is fine too. Come back when she is ready to work. Show up no matter up.”
Another fan commented: “Sounds like her mom said no. It’s not a bad thing parents should step in appropriately because Sophia is the type to work herself to death.”
Some fans voiced growing concern. One user posted: “I’m starting to worry at this point.”
However, backlash has also emerged toward HYBE x Geffen. Some fans have criticized the timing of the announcement, which came just one day before the tour was set to begin. Others have questioned why the company did not provide more clarity earlier, especially since fans had purchased tickets expecting to see all six members.
Fans who paid for OT6 (all six members) experiences have expressed frustration. The late announcement has led some to question the label’s handling of the situation and its communication with the fanbase.
Sophia’s mother previously told Vogue Philippines that her daughter has been focusing on recovery through activities like visiting Disneyland, baking, and painting. “She’s literally doing everything to get mentally well,” her mother said.
Related:
KATSEYE Achieves Major Milestone Amid Hiatuses
Despite the ongoing challenges with member health, KATSEYE recently achieved their biggest career milestone. The group released their third EP, Wild, on August 14, which became their first album to top the Billboard 200 chart.
The EP includes tracks such as “Pinky Up” and “Hootie Frutti,” both of which have charted on the Billboard Hot 100. The success comes as the group navigates a reduced lineup, demonstrating the strong fan support KATSEYE continues to receive.
KATSEYE was formed through the 2023 audition program The Debut: Dream Academy and debuted in 2024 as a six-member global girl group under HYBE and Geffen Records. The group has built a dedicated international following, with fans known as EYEKONS supporting them across the globe.
Sophia’s message to fans makes it clear she intends to return. She has been keeping up with her bandmates’ preparations and remains confident in their ability to deliver for EYEKONS. For now, the singer is focused on her recovery, and the group will continue with four members for the European leg of The Wildworld Tour.
Also Read: KATSEYE’s Sophia Laforteza Takes Temporary Hiatus for Mental Health Recovery
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