KATSEYE Daniela’s father's comments about BLACKPINK's Lisa come under fire as scandal grows

Rafael Avanzini is facing renewed backlash for alledged comments about Lisa amid Manon Bannerman’s temporary hiatus

KATSEYE has faced renewed online scrutiny after comments attributed to Daniela Avanzini’s father resurfaced amid Manon Bannerman’s temporary hiatus.

On February 21, Manon’s withdrawal from group activities was formally confirmed, with the singer later addressing fans on Weverse.

Shortly after the announcement, a video circulated online claiming, “IT'S OFFICIAL MANON IS LEAVING KATSEYE INDEFINITELY". In the comments section, an account identified as Daniela’s father, Rafael Avanzini, responded, “THE SHOW MUST GO ON ! With or without a member . KATSEYE IS BIGGER THAN ONE GIRL ."

why is daniella’s dad under social media posts supporting katseye without manon… if literal parents of members are not believing in katseye being six members— i can only imagine what else manon goes through behind the scenes. pic.twitter.com/Uf7Sr8zeWD

— big ceo (@korysverse) February 21, 2026

Further controversy followed when a Facebook comment, allegedly from the same account, resurfaced in response to a fan debate comparing Daniela and BLACKPINK’s Lisa as dancers. The comment read, “If you have to ask DANIELA! Much better trained. Plus she’s also Latina, major advantage against Asian dancers. Her hips r untouchable.” Online users criticised the remarks as inappropriate and racially insensitive.

look what i just found omfg this man is SICK. pic.twitter.com/m5nm1PeQF3

— moon⏳🧛‍♂️ (@crackpinks2) February 22, 2026

Screenshots of the remark spread rapidly across X, prompting criticism from fans who described the message as “extremely insensitive”. Others urged that backlash should not be directed at Daniela herself.

According to fans, Rafael's comments toward Manon and Lisa have racist undertones, a claim Manon seemingly backs as she allegedly liked an Instagram post pointing out racism and label mistreatment of black members in girl groups. 

Manon has recently liked an Instagram reel relating to her hiatus, racism, and label mistreatment of black members in girl groups. The reel insinuates it may not have been her decision. The statement put out by the company has left things unclear and the fandom in disarray.

We… pic.twitter.com/cTnkSimWBh

— KATSEYE News (@NewsKatseye) February 22, 2026

Meanwhile, HYBE and Geffen Records issued a joint statement supporting Manon’s hiatus, stating, “We fully support this decision. KATSEYE remains committed to showing up for one another and for the fans who mean everything to us.”