Lara was seen licking Megan’s face.
K-pop girl group KATSEYE faced backlash following their Coachella debut on April 10, 2026, after a viral on-stage moment sparked a heated online debate.
The group performed on the Sahara Stage as part of Coachella 2026, delivering a high-energy set featuring tracks including “PINKY UP”, “Debut”, and “Touch”.
Other songs in the performance included “Golden”, “Gabriela”, “M.I.A”, and “Gnarly”, showcasing the group’s evolving sound and global ambitions.
However, the performance quickly became overshadowed by a choreographed interaction between members Lara Raj and Megan Skiendiel.
During the routine, Lara was seen licking Megan’s face, a moment that rapidly spread across social media platforms and became the main talking point.
Clips of the interaction drew strong reactions online, with some viewers describing it as “disgusting”, “forced”, and attention-seeking.
Others questioned whether the moment was necessary, arguing it appeared overly provocative for a festival stage.
Katseye Megan and Lara are so desperate to be seen as lesbian. Baby u are both frauds with white boyfriends #katseye. #coachella pic.twitter.com/erTAEffjLs
— dani (@iratherbecunt) April 11, 2026
The backlash intensified as some social media users accused the group of queerbaiting, while others suggested the interaction felt inauthentic.
However, supporters defended the performance, noting that the moment was part of a pre-planned stage routine rather than a spontaneous act.
The choreography had previously involved Lara and Manon Bannerman, who is currently on hiatus from group activities.
Manon’s absence has already been a point of concern among fans, adding further scrutiny to the group’s Coachella appearance.
According to The Independent, Manon stepped back in February 2026 to focus on her health and well-being.
She was also missing from promotional material for “Pinky Up”, which has fuelled ongoing questions about her role within the group.
The controversy surrounding the stage moment comes amid wider criticism of KATSEYE’s performance style and artistic direction.
Some viewers also raised concerns about live vocals during the set, with particular attention directed towards Daniela Avanzini.
Others debated whether the group’s concept is being adjusted to appeal more to mainstream audiences, potentially diluting its original identity.
Despite the criticism, many fans argued the reaction was exaggerated and reflective of the intense scrutiny faced by emerging global acts.
KATSEYE’s Coachella debut was highly anticipated, marking a significant milestone for the group as they continue building their international presence.
While the viral moment has dominated headlines, it has also highlighted the pressures placed on the group as they navigate global fame and evolving expectations.
The group was formed through a global collaboration between HYBE and Geffen Records, aiming to create a diverse, internationally focused girl group.
Loading ...