The notification bell every Bunny had been waiting for finally arrived on January 12, 2026. Danielle, former member of NewJeans, surprised the industry by launching a personal Instagram and hosting a nine-minute live titled “Dear Bunnies.” It was a heavy moment. This was the first time she had been seen publicly since ADOR officially terminated her contract on December 29, 2025.
But this wasn’t the polished, idol-style content we are used to. Danielle appeared visibly emotional as thousands tuned in. According to Korea JoongAng Daily, the broadcast focused entirely on her feelings for fans and her members. Her staff reportedly kept her away from legal jargon, letting the raw emotion take center stage.
“I Fought Till the End”: Key Quotes
During the short stream, Danielle dropped several statements that immediately went viral. She didn’t hold back when addressing the split from the group. She was clear about where her heart was during the mediation period.
“I fought till the very end to be together with the members,” she shared through tears.
The atmosphere was heavy, but Danielle still offered a glimmer of hope. She reassured her supporters that “this is only the beginning” of her journey. She also promised to share more details about the dispute when the timing is “right.” Now, fans are speculating about a counter-lawsuit or a potential move to a new agency.
The $32 Million Legal Offensive
The backdrop to this emotional address is a high-stakes legal war. ADOR has filed a massive lawsuit seeking $32 million in damages. The claim targets Danielle, a family member, and former CEO Min Hee Jin. The agency is taking a hardline stance. They allege that Danielle’s family “provoked” the events that led to the contract breach.
In their official statement, ADOR maintained that it was “no longer feasible” to work with the artist. While the other members have faced their own hurdles, Danielle is currently the only one whose contract has been fully severed by the label.
NewJeans at a Crossroads: Four Members or Three?
The “NewJeans” brand is in a precarious spot. Hanni, Haerin, and Hyein have reportedly returned to ADOR to resume activities. This leaves the group as a quartet for now. However, that could change quickly due to the “Minji Variable.”
- Hanni, Haerin, Hyein: Reported to have returned to ADOR under their original contract terms.
- Minji: Her status remains “under discussion” and highly uncertain.
- The Trio Risk: If Minji’s negotiations fail, industry insiders suggest NewJeans may be forced to rebrand as a trio.
Snapshot: The Legal Timeline
- December 29, 2025: ADOR terminates Danielle’s contract, citing a breakdown in trust.
- December 31, 2025: Reports surface of ADOR’s $32M damages lawsuit.
- January 12, 2026: Danielle opens her personal Instagram and holds the “Dear Bunnies” live.
- Ongoing: Court proceedings continue over the remaining members’ contracts.
Industry Impact and Brand Shifts
Messy contract terminations usually lead to “blacklisting,” but global brands seem to be sticking by Danielle. Sharp-eyed fans noticed that Celine and representatives from THEBLACKLABEL followed her new account almost instantly. This support stands in sharp contrast to the agency’s narrative of a “provoked” breach.
Public perception of HYBE and ADOR has taken a significant hit. Many fans are accusing the corporate giants of prioritizing legal wins over the mental health of their artists. Still, the “Bunnies” are staying loyal. They have shifted from group streaming goals to protecting the individual members. As the legal war of 2026 rages on, the final chapter of the NewJeans we knew is being written in real-time.
