In a surprising turn of events, global TikTok sensation Khaby Lame has left the United States following a brief detention by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The 25-year-old social media star, best known for his signature silent reactions and viral "life hack" debunks, was detained at Harry Reid International Airport in Las Vegas on June 6 due to immigration violations.
According to an ICE spokesperson, Lame, who is an Italian citizen born in Senegal, entered the U.S. on April 30 but overstayed the terms of his visa. Upon his detention, he was granted voluntary departure the same day and has since exited the country.
“U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement detained Seringe Khabane Lame, 25, a citizen of Italy, June 6, at the Harry Reid International Airport, Las Vegas, Nevada for immigration violations," said ICE in a statement. "Lame entered the United States April 30 and overstayed the terms of his visa. Lame was granted voluntary departure June 6 and has since departed the U.S."
This incident comes amid a broader and more aggressive immigration crackdown under U.S. President Donald Trump, who resumed office in January. Since then, ICE has ramped up its operations, conducting widespread raids and deportations. The administration has overseen hundreds of thousands of removals, targeting individuals who are in the country without legal status.
Khaby, whose real name is Seringe Khabane Lame, was born in Senegal but moved to Chivasso, near Turin, Italy, with his family when he was just one year old. He became an Italian citizen in 2022 after years of public advocacy and support.
Despite this immigration hiccup, Khaby remains one of the most followed creators on TikTok, boasting a staggering 162.2 million followers under the handle @khaby.lame. Known for his universal, wordless humor and unique facial expressions, his content has resonated across cultures and languages, making him a beloved figure worldwide.
As of now, it's unclear whether Lame plans to return to the U.S. in the future or how this event might affect his international engagements. For now, fans around the world continue to support him and eagerly await his next move, wherever that may be.
