TikTok star Khaby Lame detained by ICE and departs the U.S. voluntarily.

TikTok sensation Khaby Lame has departed the United States following detainment by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) over immigration violations. A representative from ICE confirmed that Lame, a 25-year-old Italian citizen, was detained on June 6 at Harry Reid International Airport in Las Vegas, Nevada. The measures taken against Lame stem from an alleged overstay of his visa.

Lame is renowned for his comedic content on TikTok, where he boasts over 160 million followers, making him the platform’s most followed individual. The content creator’s rise to prominence began during the COVID-19 pandemic when he began sharing silent comedic videos after being laid off from his job. He quickly became a global sensation, known for his humorous take on life’s everyday situations, which resonated with people across various demographics.

Born in Senegal, Lame moved to Italy as a child, eventually obtaining Italian citizenship in August 2022. His journey from the factory floor to internet stardom is remarkable; prior to his TikTok success, he held multiple jobs to support his family, including three younger siblings and an elder brother.

Upon his detainment, Lame was granted voluntary departure, allowing him to leave the U.S. without facing formal removal proceedings. This incident has attracted attention amidst a broader context of stringent immigration enforcement, where ICE has conducted numerous raids as part of a campaign that aligns with the previous administration’s tough stance on immigration.

While Lame has continued to engage with his audience on social media platforms following his return to Italy, he has not made any public statements regarding his recent difficulties with immigration authorities. This situation highlights the complexities faced by international content creators in navigating visa regulations while simultaneously managing public-facing careers that can rapidly evolve.

In recent months, Lame has made appearances at significant cultural events, including the Met Gala in May 2025, where he represented the theme of Black Dandyism in a striking grey and cream suit. His continued presence in the public eye underscores the ongoing intersection of social media fame and the challenges of immigration policies that can impact even the most prominent figures. As Lame’s story unfolds, it remains a focal point for discussions surrounding art, accessibility, and the implications of current immigration regulations.

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