Sophia Laforteza will resume group activities with KATSEYE beginning the first week of January 2027, HYBE x Geffen confirmed, marking her return after a months-long hiatus to prioritize mental health and wellness.
Sophia Laforteza’s return to KATSEYE was officially announced on October 8, 2026, with the Filipino singer set to rejoin the group in the first week of January 2027. HYBE x Geffen stated in a Weverse announcement that Laforteza has been prioritizing her health and well-being with our full support and resources,
while clarifying she will not participate in the North American leg of the group’s The Wildworld Tour
or 2026 promotional activities. The label expressed gratitude to fans, known as EYEKONS, for their continued love, support, and understanding
during her absence.
Hiatus for Mental Health, Fan Support
Laforteza first announced her hiatus in August 2026, citing the need to focus on mental health and wellness.
In a statement shared on Instagram Stories, she thanked fans for their patience, grace, and understanding,
writing, Your kindness during this time has given me more strength than you know.
She reflected on the lessons learned during her break, emphasizing the importance of self-care: Learning to care for myself, and continuing to do that work every day, is something I want to carry with me as I grow both as a person and as an artist.
The singer acknowledged the difficulty of missing the remainder of the tour but framed her absence as a necessary step for recovery. As much as I wish I could simply push through, I’ve come to understand that sometimes having the courage to take a step back is what allows you to move forward,
she wrote. She expressed hope to return happier, healthier, stronger, more grounded, and ready to give you everything I’ve been wanting to give you.
Laforteza’s hiatus began in August 2026, following the group’s European WILDWORLD tour, which featured four members—Daniela Avanzini, Lara Raj, Megan Skiendiel, and Yoonchae Jeung. The group’s third EP, WILD, reached No. 1 on the Billboard 200 in August 2026, marking their first chart-topping album.
Group Activities Amidst Hiatus
During Laforteza’s absence, KATSEYE’s other members—Daniela Avanzini, Lara Raj, Megan Skiendiel, and Yoonchae Jeung—have continued group activities. Fellow member Manon Bannerman has been on a separate hiatus since February 2026, with no update on her return. The group’s documentary, Katseye: Wild Hearts, premiered on Disney+ on October 16, 2026, while their WILD era included performances at events like the Hinterland Music Festival.
HYBE x Geffen’s statement reiterated that Laforteza’s return aligns with the group’s next chapter together in 2027.
Fans reacted positively to the news, with one calling her “Queen Sophia” and another expressing hope for her feeling good right now.
The announcement comes as KATSEYE prepares for their North American tour, which begins on October 13 and runs through November 28. The trek will visit cities including Atlanta, New York, and Los Angeles before concluding in Mexico City on November 27.
Laforteza’s return follows a period of public reflection and advocacy for mental health awareness. In her Instagram posts, she emphasized the importance of self-compassion, writing, I’ve realized how much easier it can be to give to the people around you than it is to give to yourself. I’m learning that I can receive from myself, too.
Her journey has resonated with fans, who have praised her honesty and resilience.
The group’s management has not provided details on Laforteza’s role in 2027, but her return signals a step toward full lineup cohesion. As KATSEYE continues its global expansion, Laforteza’s reintegration underscores the balance between artistic ambition and personal well-being. The group, created via the reality show The Debut: Dream Academy, includes Laforteza, Daniela Avanzini, Lara Raj, Megan Skiendiel, Manon Bannerman, and Yoonchae Jeung. They debuted in 2024 under HYBE and Geffen Records and have released songs including Touch, Gnarly, and Gabriela.
KATSEYE’s North American Wildworld Tour, set to begin October 13, will not include Laforteza or Manon Bannerman. Fans also celebrated the release of a new vinyl for Record Store Day, featuring Manon on the cover. While no update has been provided on Bannerman’s return, her inclusion in the vinyl has sparked hope among EYEKONS.
Laforteza’s hiatus, initially announced on August 7, 2026, was part of a broader focus on mental health. Fans have consistently shown support, with one writing, Yay so glad she’s feeling good right now. Welcome back babygirl.
Another added, Sophie, I love you! I’m always rooting for you.
The group’s resilience and commitment to well-being continue to define their journey.
The group’s global appeal has been bolstered by their collaborations and performances, including their WILD era. As they prepare for 2027, the return of Laforteza and potential reintegration of Bannerman could mark a new phase in their career. For now, fans await the group’s next steps with anticipation.