World’s most-followed TikToker Khaby Lame detained in US over visa violation
Italian social media sensation granted voluntary departure after brief Las Vegas detention
DUBAI: Social media megastar Khaby Lame was briefly detained by US immigration authorities over the weekend at Harry Reid International Airport, Las Vegas, for overstaying his visa, officials confirmed.
The 25-year-old Italian national, who commands 162.2 million followers on TikTok, was granted “voluntary departure” the same day and has since exited the country. Lame entered the United States on April 30.
US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) released a statement noting that Seringe Khabane Lame had violated immigration rules during his stay. While no charges were filed, the influencer's abrupt detention made headlines across platforms, particularly after political activist Bo Loudon publicised the incident on X (formerly Twitter), calling Lame an “illegal alien.”
????BREAKING: President Trump's ICE just announced the largest TikTok user, ILLEGAL ALIEN Khaby Lame, has "departed" the U.S. after being taken into custody.
— Bo Loudon (@BoLoudon) June 7, 2025
No one works faster than President Trump's administration!???? pic.twitter.com/nAFYgJgEkb
What did ICE say?
According to ICE, Lame was held at the airport for a short time before being permitted to leave voluntarily. A screenshot shared by Loudon, allegedly from ICE’s detainee locator, showed Lame listed as in custody, though he appeared active on social media during the same period.
Confusion mounted online, prompting fans to question the timing and accuracy of the reports.
The purpose of Lame’s US visit remains unconfirmed.
Who Is Khaby Lame?
Born in Senegal and raised in Italy, Lame lost his factory job during the pandemic and began posting comedic videos from his home in Chivasso, near Turin.
Known for mocking absurd internet tutorials with silent facial expressions and gestures, Lame has achieved global recognition and lucrative partnerships. Forbes estimates he earned $16.5 million between June 2022 and September 2023 through brand deals.
Now a UNICEF goodwill ambassador, he has been recognised by Forbes and Fortune for his cultural impact.