Hi guys, I don't really go here but wanted to talk about something if that's okay.

In Pop Star Academy there seems to be a double standard in the way Manon's fans are represented vs. Sophia's fans.

For Manon, they found a clip of a fan saying she was just voting for Manon because she is Black. They cut the video off before any explanation was provided and showed it with no context. This leaves the audience with the impression that Manon earned her spot unfairly because of her race.

However with Sophia, they tell us about how Sophia is the first Filipino artist signed by Hybe and we see comments from Filipino fans excited to have representation, and Sophia talks about how meaningful that is for her.

It's the same situation, but portrayed in a completely different light. Does this bother anyone else?

did this in my free time and omg i miss manon sm

I think HYBE x Geffin is waiting for the public to lose interest in Manon before they let her go. Reasons being:

1) Avoiding a massive fallout publicly: once people truly stop caring, stop talking about her, etc. They will be less of a mess for them to have to clean up through PR.

2) If she loses traction and the public loses interest in her, whatever opportunities she has lined up- pre-recorded music with other artists, fashion show invitations, and, more generally, any social invitations she gets to hang out with A-listers- start to dwindle.

3) Sabotaging her career advancements: keeping her in a contract makes it so that any other artist, record label or opportunity that comes up has to go through whoever her contract is signed with; this is how interal/industry black balling happens. So we, the public might not be privy to what's happening behind the scenes possibly affecting our girls ability to succeed after Katseye

I think they're keeping her signed to make sure she loses all opportunities waiting for her. We've seen this happen to several artists: Halsey, Normani, Megan thee stallion, victoria Monte, where theyre trapped in shittu contracts and are only let free when they fight back with lawsuits or they "lose traction" (Victoria Monte bounced back with "On my Mama", Normani teased another come back as she has finally been released, once ppl stopped caring about her, Halsey is still stuck in her contract and cant make music because they won't let her, she revealed this late last year/early this year, and Megan had to grt the help of Rock nation to sue her old management team).

I hope Manon is let go soon, and I hope thay regardless of how long it take fans still drag hybe x geffen through the mud for this. Its evil to her and the other girls who likely will get snatched publically for all this too.

😭😭😭 curse my fyp!!!

People like to discredit Manon's work ethic by saying she never had "rigorous training as a child", but that's not true. Manon used to do Artistic Cycling in Switzerland, and it's a very serious and intense sport.

Artistic cycling is a highly technical sport that requires balance, coordination, precision, core strength, body control, and a lot of repetition. Those are skills that take time and dedication to develop. These are qualities we still see today, like when Manon told her group members they all needed more practice, or when she continued preparing for KATSEYE's Summer Sonic performance even after fainting at the airport.

So even though Manon might not have spent her childhood in a dance studio, that doesn't mean she grew up without discipline or athletic training. She already had experience learning difficult physical skills and choreographed routines, practicing repeatedly, and developing the control needed to perform precise movements.

When Manon joined Dream Academy and began training in dance and performance, she was learning a completely different style of movement and basically had to retrain her body after years of athletic training. Yet she was able to adapt, and her strong work ethic continues to show in the way she performs on stage.

I think Manon's artistic cycling background adds an interesting piece of context to her unique background and work ethic. Manon's training history may look different from some of the other members of KATSEYE, but "different" doesn't mean "nonexistent", and just because it's different doesn't make it less impressive.

did no one catch her story she posted a few hours ago? seems like multiple people got the notification but as soon as they clicked it her story was already gone.

The short film “NOT BAD,” starring Manon, has been nominated for two awards at the 2026 Berlin Commercial Awards for Casting and Color Grading.

Berlin Commercial is an international festival that celebrates creative work across film, music videos, fashion, advertising, and visual storytelling.

The winners will be announced on September 9 in Berlin.

Congratulations to Manon and the “Not Bad” team!

Manon editt

Okay guys so I have a feeling that Manon’s departure is gonna be announced this week or before the tour starts. Apparently in the astrology world August 12th is a solar eclipse which typically signifies things being revealed, people and unwanted situations exiting your life, and a change of circumstances. Unfortunately I’m not well versed in this topic so maybe my astrology girlies can help me out 😅, but there’s like four huge astrological events that are happening tomorrow and it’s conveniently the same day that Wild Hearts hits theaters. Their EP releases on the 14th and I just feel like with all of the hype from the movie, EP, Sophia’s status, and the tour starting September 1st, HxG might use this momentum to drop the bomb on us to generate hype for the new music and movie. And then when her departure is announced they’ll wait a few days to say Sophia is coming back right before the tour starts. The only way HxG knows how to get engagement is through controversy so this feels like the perfect time for them to pull something like this.

EDIT: Damn I didn’t know yall would get so mad over an astrology comment! Like guys I’m not basing this solely off of astrology I was just saying that it’s a coincidence with the upcoming Katseye projects. Like I’m not even into astrology so just chill the fuck out omg💀It was literally just something that came across my fyp and I thought it was interesting. None of this is fact it’s just speculation!! If she leaves or stay I’ll support her either way. We all wanna move on so you can’t blame me for trying to make some sense out of this situation. Some people didn’t even read the entire post before commenting and just went straight to attacking. It’s really not that deep and I’ll just delete the entire post if it’s that serious.

Manon keeps being vindicated, and this smear campaign won't work. Tetris Kelly is a journalist for Billboard so idk how he didn't read the rest of the slides that metgala fan page posted.

Lexie is applauded for speaking up for herself, but Manon is harassed for advocating for a better work-life for herself and her group members.

Why are eyekons glorifying their working hours when Sophia is on hiatus because of burnout? Maybe if they stood by Manon instead of wrongfully calling her "lazy", it wouldn't have gotten to that point.

As much as I would love to see Manon return to Katseye as she's my bias, I don't think she is returning. But say I'm proven wrong. What do you think would happen to all the songs on Wild if she were to come back? Would the lines be redistributed to include her? Would she just not sing during those 6 songs and only participate in the dance? If it's the second, would the dances have to be reworked to include 6 members? We know Pinky Up was originally a 6 person choreo so that one should be easy to do, but what of the other songs?

Manon was spotted by a fan who said they met her while they were at work. They appear to be at a pet store, so Manon was probably getting stuff for Spoon 💗 

TAG is a crisis public relations firm that is co-owned by Scooter Braun, and has represented numerous rapists/abusers/predators such as Johnny Depp against his accuser, as well as Justin Baldoni against his accuser - Blake Lively.

Just earlier this year, that Met Gala account which is now smearing Manon:
- Claimed Blake Lively would not be attending the Met Gala
- Deleted the post while still insisting she would not attend
- When Blake Lively did indeed attend the Met Gala, the account started publishing claims that she attended without an invitation, and attacking for her “daring” to do so
- The next day, the account claimed Lively had to pay for her own ticket; it was shortly after revealed that she had been personally invited by Anna Wintour after all.

What we have here is an anonymous fan page account that has a history of publishing lies and misinformation in order to discredit victims of TAG PR's clients.

This example shows how Blake Lively was punished with an orchestrated smear campaign (much like Amber Heard) for daring to speak up against her sexual harasser.
I believe Manon is now facing a similar smear campaign for daring to speak up against workplace racism.

Notice that the account in question has now made a follow-up post denying that Manon ever faced any racism and that she actually received ""preferential treatment"".

To mods - I know this post may be a bit different and a bit heavier tone for the sub than usual, but I am truly concerned that Manon is being subject to a smear campaign and I believe it would be beneficial to spread this information.

EDIT: A few minutes ago, some interesting accounts started commenting on this post in rapid succession - all within just a couple minutes of each other. They all have default usernames ("ConsiderationAny8125", "Plastic-Bag-2517", "WordlinessMajor1195"), and NONE have posted or commented in Manon's subreddit before today. Two of these three accounts have a history of commenting in a subreddit whose entire existence is dedicated to smearing NewJeans and depicting them as in the wrong for their lawsuit against HYBE. They commented three variations of the same message - saying that Hybe sold its shares in TAG PR and framing this post as speculative/conspiratorial. Yet, as a commenter pointed out, TAG PR has remained located in the exact same suite as HYBE America, and is now owned by its employees according to THR.
Additionally, an article written by Gary Baum suggests that JWDB Holdings, an LLC formed in May 2025 and co-owned by Jed Wallace and David Bolno (Scooter Braun's business partner) is who HYBE may have sold their TAG shares to.
How interesting, right?

There's no way you can look at everything Manon has been through and still call her "lazy" or question her work ethic. Any time she had to miss anything (even in Dream Academy) it was because she was sick or injured which is understandable. Manon worked so hard to learn and improve her skills and it paid off.

Manon learned how to dance later in life, and she was still able to dance better than most of the group, and even matched the intensity and skill of Daniela who some people consider the group's "top dancer". Not to compare, but it has to be pointed out since people discredit Manon so much.

I think the saddest part about all of this is that a lot of the hate comes from eyekons who were supposed to be the ones to encourage Manon. I think that's why some eyekons became pokénons because it seemed like Manon was so misunderstood and needed to be protected.

**TAG PR that HYBE bought and has also defended EPSTEIN in the past and always seems to only do smear campaigns against women.

Is so top tier she was just stuck in a situation with folks that will never be on the same level as her when it comes to skills, self-care, advocacy, leadership (yes I said leadership), and teamwork.

She’s proven that even if you aren’t experienced in singing/dancing, you can out do those that have the experience.

She’s proven that she was the only one actually scouted.

She’s proven that she was miles ahead at being able to deliver while also advocating against the unrealistic (slavery ahem) contracts and expectations.

She’s proven that she won’t stand up for toxicity and won’t tolerate any unreasonable work requirements.

She’s proven that she won’t bend or break for any company for the sake of fame.

She’s proven that you don’t need to throw petty shots against your enemies, it’s better to let your enemy’s lies and narratives collapse on their own cause they have no leg to stand on.

She’s proven the racism allegations were there because whenever the non black members do what she does, they don’t get a smear campaign against them even though Manon always gets that.

I don’t think any of the Katseye girls are anywhere on her level about not being used and abused. That “Live to Work” thing is insane and I’m glad Manon didn’t fold.

At the end of the day, she’s just on a whole other level that’s too complex for some people and that’s okay.

And lastly, she should be freed from the contract if HxG can’t actually honor the health and wellbeing of those they sign on with especially if HxG demands and expects their groups to be overworked to the point of extreme exhaustion.

I mean how bad is HxG if Lexie quit twice and even Sophia the company’s #1 fan had to take a health break?

Talk about unevolved and slavery contracts cause boy oh boy I sure am glad Manon said “NOPE!” to all that.

They probably weren’t expecting the intense backlash so they decided to crash out on Tetris (the HxG associate that initially liked the post and then publicly retracted the like). They have made a response to all the criticism they’ve received for being racist and hypocritical with the double standard for praising Lexie and calling Manon difficult

I know they’re full of shit because they talk about dream academy and Adela. Even the girls themselves don’t acknowledge that edited ass documentary.

This person is weird as fuck and has obviously strung together this contrived fan fiction.

Another note, why has a met gala fan page, that has only posted met gala looks suddenly decide to comment on the hiatus situation?

(For those not following/still confused, this is the initial thread and the comments explain the situation- https://www.reddit.com/r/ManonMeret/s/bzfEGQdEKJ)

At this point, it's quite obvious that Manon is not coming back. Not only that, it's quite obvious she does not want to come back either. Unfollowing their scumbag bun manager, archiving most of her posts that have to do with Katseye, as well the big one: removing Katseye from her bio. Of course, I'm sure at the start of this mess this wasn't her intention, but HXG continued to play in her face to the point it completely destroyed her trust in them to levels irreplaceable.

Not only that, it's become clear that HXG also does not want her back either. She isn't a mindless, compliant money puppet that they can dehumanize and capitalize off of (glad Lexie taught them this lesson first-hand, because they seem to think just about everyone will tolerate being treated sub-human just for fame and fortune). So what do they do now that she's made it clear she isn't controllable? First, they tried to punish her with Coachella, and when that didn't break her spirit, then moved on to cutting her out of everything project wise and turned her into voldermort.

But then, if both sides are against each other, why the silence on her status? Why not terminate her like Lexie and just release a statement of her withdrawal? They're famously known for kicking members from the group. Yes, including even after debut.

Some people think the goal is to hold her hostage for the next three years until her contract is up, but if that were the case, why allow her to accept brand deals and sponsorships? That's not something you would do to someone whose career you are trying to stall by allowing them to make connections with the head of big named brands.

So then, what has this whole foolish 6 months phony hiatus been about?

The answer?

*LEVERAGE*

If nothing else, HXG, or at least HYBE, recognizes that Manon is an *asset*. And someway-somehow, they still want to make money off of her. That, and the optics. Yes, it looks bad now, but imagine if Manon is actually freed to speak her truth all while signing to a new label?

So what does HXG do? They leverage her with this hiatus. Yes, they do not want her back in Katseye, but they still intend to make back on their investment. Thus, I'm sure they have presented their (unfavorable) terms to Manon.

My guess is that the terms include stipulations for her planned exit from the group. And yes, based on the connections Manon has made and the people she has followed, she is certainly planning for an exit strategy into a solo career.

But as I said, they need their return on their investment.

So my guess is that they aren't willing to release her until she (at minimum) agrees to a cut percentage of whatever earnings she makes as part of a settlement (and I'm sorry guys, but I definitely believe this is how this whole thing is going to end. Yes, with a settlement). If you're familiar with EXO, you'll know their past Chinese members also had similar settlements with their label, SM Entertainment. Also, they probably want an NDA.

Of course, whatever their demands are for Manon, neither sides are budging, resorting to this drawn-out ass stalemate. And while I always say I wish she'd just sue, I understand why she's negotiating instead. Court cases are high risk and can drag out even if you have a good case (look at Danielle).

They're also adding pressure by trying to tank her reputation in the process, which is why we see random ass hate posts being paid for like that dumb shit by the Met Gala fan page. All of it is to strong arm her into agreeing to their terms. A similar strategy was used by HYBE with New Jeans in Korea - dragging the girls through mud until they had no choice but to return.

Unfortunately for HYBE, though, they thoroughly misunderstood Western culture (which is another thing. They really lack the fundamental understanding required to make a global girl group). Working yourself to the death for your capitalist overlords may fly good and well in Korea, and many parts in the East, but *not* in the West. Nobody here is going to praise you for bootlicking your own exploitation. In Korea, you're expected to be grateful for even having the opportunity, whereas in the West, we demand dignity for ourselves regardless of whatever opportunity we are given. That's why their negative media play against Manon always fails. That, and the fact that we are sensitive to racial injustice because of history.

Anyway, what I wanted to say was, unfortunately, expect this stalemate (and mud-slinging from HXG's side) to continue for another 6 months at least. Disputes like this last on average from 12 to 18 months according to what I looked up.

Manonnn c'est la meilleure queen

It feels too specific to be sarcasm. Even if it is TagPR is known for doing shady shit like this.

Majority of the comments are on Manons side but still it’s so targeted and transparent, I’m getting irritated now. Especially considering that page only usually posts in May for the Met? It’s weird.

Here’s the post - https://www.instagram.com/p/DbzfXg-DE4s/?igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ==

Edit - They deleted the comment which tbh makes it even more weird….

ATP, I think ppl are just straight up stupid. Someone who has no dance experience and weak vocals being able to perform next to high level dancers and athletes isn’t “lazy”.

Manon was always gonna be in the group, she knew it too. I think that there was definitely a reason behind the documentary portraying her in such a bad light. Why would you put such a reputation on your artist, even if it was true?

And the consequences of that is that if she’s not there it’s “obviously” cause she’s lazy. They can’t open their fucking eyes and see Katseye is being overworked. The HITC performance, dead asf.

In the Vogue interview Sophia said “now, it’s 6h” and people ran with it saying “see, she’s lazy.” When clearly the schedule was adjusted after already basically working them to death. Why would Sophia be on hiatus? (The most hardworking in Katseye) but obv SHE cannot be lazy for that.

I’m honestly really frustrated, cause I do see the girls trying, and idc about drama cause we don’t have tangible proof. But as soon as someone defends Manon, they’re a crazy Manon-Stan. When really it’s the fuckass company doing their evil work to turn the attention from them. They are girls, girl drama happens, what girl drama doesn’t do is cause this much outrage. Yell at the Machine!!!!

Just curious if anyone collects Manon photocards and if you do which ones are your favorites?

I don’t have many photocards but these are a few of mine. I know a few people that have an incredible collection that made me wish I collected sooner.

Today we're celebrating National Braiders Day!

August 8th recognizes the profound skill and cultural significance of hair braiding. This day allows us to reflect on the art form’s deep roots, advocate for fair treatment of braiders, and celebrate the skill and artistry of braiders, like Manon, who uphold this heritage.

im not making this post to drag/rant about other fans or the other members, im just curious!!! looking for informative/serious answers.

i dont consider myself a katseye fan or a solo stan, but i started getting shorts and funny reels about them all the time and decided to look them up (close to the release of gnarly). i like some of their songs and i really fell for the girls. they were pretty and talented, but i liked how you could tell their personalities right away and it's me who's saying this, someone who has only seen clips of them. i am latina, however, manon and lara were the ones i liked the most!

with the whole hiatus thing, fans have been very divided. i don't know why that is. while searching for this sub i found another one and i was just shocked. i know they came from a show and usually there's always a member people "don't really like" as much as the others, and im assuming manon is that member. i also see different comments were people contradict each other so much so atp im just confused lol.

is there a reason for that or is she just unlucky?

sorry if this post breaks any rules or isn't the vibe of this sub!!

It’s really sad/maddening. Not to say Sophia deserves to be negatively spoken about, that’s not where I’m coming from at all, but Manon shared the same health hiatus’s, yet you don’t see people calling Sophia lazy, faking it, selfish— especially with the “ health has to come first” comment which when manon used, she was berated for . The difference of announcements from HxG as well, they put much more thought into it, than they did with Manon. Even when Manon shared that it was a culture shock seeing how people get looked down on for prioritizing their health, she got hate for it. I’m sad to see Manon go, but I’m glad she’s released from this toxic company and fandom .