Khaby Lame Detained in U.S. for Visa Overstay, Leaves Without Deportation Order
Las Vegas – Khaby Lame, the world’s most followed TikTok personality, has departed the United States after being detained by immigration agents for allegedly overstaying his visa. The Senegalese-Italian influencer, known for his humorous videos reacting to overly complicated life hacks, was taken into custody on Friday at Harry Reid International Airport but was released without a deportation order, according to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
Lame, whose legal name is Seringe Khabane Lame, arrived in the U.S. on April 30 and exceeded the duration of his visa. While he has not publicly addressed the incident, a spokesperson for ICE confirmed his voluntary departure, which allows individuals facing removal from the U.S. to leave without a formal deportation record—a status that could bar them from re-entering the country for up to ten years.
The 25-year-old content creator gained global fame during the pandemic, building a massive following of over 162 million on TikTok without ever speaking a word in his videos. His unique style and relatable humor have struck a chord with international audiences. Since his rise to fame, he has secured lucrative partnerships, including a multi-year deal with designer brand Hugo Boss, and was appointed a UNICEF goodwill ambassador earlier this year.
Lame’s recent attendance at the Met Gala shortly before his detainment reflects how quickly his internet fame has blossomed. His predicament unfolds amid heightened scrutiny of immigration policies under President Trump’s administration, characterized by intensified enforcement actions and community protests. As Lame exits the U.S., his future aspirations may hinge on successfully navigating visa regulations moving forward.
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