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| Is CGT48 Really Disbanding? Trainee Closure and Cost Cuts Fuel 2026 Speculation (Photo: Sohu) |
CGT48 has found itself at the centre of intense speculation at the start of 2026, with growing rumours suggesting the Chengdu-based 48 Group branch may be heading towards a major restructure — or even full disbandment.
The chatter didn’t come out of nowhere. Over the past few weeks, fans began noticing several unusual changes surrounding the group’s operations. What started as quiet concern inside fan communities quickly escalated into full-blown debate across social media.
The biggest red flag? CGT48 is reportedly no longer available as a trainee registration option for Chengdu.
According to information circulating within fan circles, aspiring trainees can now only apply for other branches such as GNZ48 in Guangzhou or CKG48 in Chongqing.
The absence of the Chengdu branch from recruitment channels has triggered strong speculation that CGT48’s operational status is currently under review — or possibly being phased out entirely.
Adding fuel to the fire, several members are said to have missed recent official photoshoots and routine performance evaluations.
For long-time followers of the 48 idol management system under Star48, these processes are a standard part of group operations. Their sudden irregularity has raised eyebrows.
There are also whispers about internal cost-cutting measures. Reports suggest certain member facilities, including supplementary meal provisions, have been reduced in the name of efficiency.
While cost adjustments are not uncommon in entertainment management, the timing has intensified assumptions that the Chengdu branch may be undergoing financial tightening ahead of structural changes.
The rumours gained even more traction after discussions emerged about potential post-New Year restructuring.
Following a series of early 2026 events, including fan-selected song performances, insiders speculate that a team reshuffle could be imminent.
Several names have already been floated in transfer theories. Some fans believe certain members could be relocated to Shanghai, while newer-generation idols might return to Guangzhou.
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Others suggest a possible integration with the Chongqing branch to form a new unit. There’s even talk of creating a combined performance team with trainees from Beijing.
However, it’s crucial to note that no official confirmation has been released by management. Everything currently circulating remains community-driven discussion. Reactions online have been far from uniform.
Some long-time supporters feel anxious and disappointed, arguing that CGT48 represents Chengdu’s growing entertainment presence and should not quietly disappear.
They’ve been calling for transparency from management and clearer communication about the group’s future.
Others are taking a more pragmatic view. A portion of netizens believe restructuring could actually benefit members, especially if transfers to larger branches offer stronger exposure and better promotional resources.
There’s also a group of fans actively brainstorming solutions. Suggestions range from rebuilding a smaller performance team in Chengdu, merging into Chongqing to form a fresh unit, or temporarily reassigning members to Guangzhou to stabilise their stage opportunities.
These ideas show that while uncertainty looms, the support base is still very much engaged.
At the heart of the issue lies one question: is this simply strategic optimisation within the 48 system, or the quiet end of CGT48 as fans know it?
Until Star48 releases a formal statement, the future of the Chengdu branch remains unclear. For now, everything sits in the realm of speculation — but the signs have been strong enough to keep the community on edge.
What do you think is really happening behind the scenes? Is this just routine restructuring, or is CGT48 genuinely at risk of closing down?