UPDATE: The rising girl group KATSEYE has disclosed alarming news: they have been targeted with multiple death threats since their debut. This revelation comes as they gain momentum, having recently been nominated for Best New Artist at the Grammy Awards.
In an exclusive interview with BBC News, the members expressed their shock over the severity of the threats, which have even extended to their families. “I try to tell myself it doesn’t matter, but if 1,000 people are sending you death threats, it’s jarring. Even if it’s not going to happen, it’s heavy,” said member Lara.
While specifics about the threats remain undisclosed, the group revealed they have faced pervasive online harassment. Lara noted, “Although our career has been really short, we feel we’ve gotten many things already said to us, to our families.” These comments often carry a sexist tone, reducing the group’s members to mere rankings based on their appearance and performance. “People see us as women to rank. They’ll grade us based on how attractive we are, our singing and dancing skills, and then add it all up to give us a percentage,” Lara added.
Despite these challenges, KATSEYE stands firm in their commitment to diversity and empowerment. “We exist for girls who are proud of their backgrounds. We want them to feel proud, regardless of their appearance or background,” stated member Manon.
Earlier this year, KATSEYE made headlines with their second EP, Beautiful Chaos, which was released in May 2023 and charted globally. Their recent nomination for the Grammy Awards has sparked debates about their target audience and the implications of their rising fame.
As KATSEYE continues to navigate the pressures of fame and the dark side of public life, fans and supporters are rallying around them. The group’s courage to speak out against online harassment shines a light on the urgent issue of safety for artists in the limelight.
What happens next for KATSEYE remains to be seen, but their resilience in the face of adversity is inspiring countless fans around the world. As they prepare for the Grammy Awards, the music industry and their supporters stand with them in solidarity.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.
