KATSEYE Opens Up About Receiving Thousands of Death Threats: ‘It’s Heavy, and It’s Jarring’
“As time goes on, the stakes get higher, and the pressure from all sides becomes more intense."
Mark
K-pop-inspired girl group KATSEYE is speaking out about the darker side of fame. In a recent interview with the BBC, the six-member band opened up about the emotional toll of receiving “thousands” of online death threats, and how they’re learning to cope with the pressure that comes with global stardom.
The group, Sophia Laforteza, Manon Bannerman, Daniela Avanzini, Lara Raj, Megan Skiendiel, and Yoonchae Jeung, rose to international prominence following their viral performances, polished visuals, and fierce choreography. But as their fame skyrockets, so has the level of online scrutiny.
Raj, 20, echoed those sentiments, sharing how overwhelming it can be to read hateful messages and threats.
The group, known for their inclusive message and passionate LGBTQ+ fanbase, has been open about mental health and self-expression since their debut. But even for artists accustomed to being in the spotlight, the magnitude of social media criticism can be crushing.
Bannerman, 23, added that leaning on each other has been essential to surviving the emotional weight of fame.
Despite the challenges, KATSEYE’s momentum hasn’t slowed. The group recently earned Grammy nominations for Best New Artist and Best Pop Duo/Group Performance, and is gearing up to launch their Beautiful Chaos Tour, which kicks off Saturday, Nov. 15, in Minneapolis.
