TikTok star Khaby Lame leaves US after detention for visa overstay in Las Vegas

Lame, whose real name is Seringe Khabane Lame, was held by US ICE on Friday at Harry Reid International Airport. (File photo)

TikTok sensation Khaby Lame, the world’s most-followed personality on the platform, has left the U.S. after being briefly detained by immigration officials in Las Vegas for allegedly overstaying his visa.

Lame, whose real name is Seringe Khabane Lame, was held by US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) on Friday at Harry Reid International Airport.

According to an ICE spokesperson, the 25-year-old Senegalese-Italian influencer arrived in the US on April 30 and had “overstayed the terms of his visa.” However, he was not issued a deportation order and was permitted to leave the country voluntarily.

A voluntary departure allows individuals facing removal to exit the US without triggering a formal deportation, which can bar re-entry for up to ten years.

Lame has not yet publicly commented on the incident.

His detention comes amid a broader crackdown on immigration by U.S. President Donald Trump, whose administration has ramped up enforcement efforts, including controversial raids in Los Angeles that sparked widespread protests and a political firestorm.

Lame skyrocketed to fame during the COVID-19 pandemic through his wordless TikTok videos mocking overly complicated "life hack" clips. His relatable expressions and comedic timing earned him over 162 million followers, making him the most followed person on the platform.

Born in Senegal and raised in Italy from infancy, Lame holds Italian citizenship. He transitioned from internet fame to global recognition, signing a multi-year deal with Hugo Boss in 2022 and being named a UNICEF goodwill ambassador earlier this year.

Lame had been in the US to attend events, including the Met Gala in New York City, held just days after his arrival in April.

(With inputs from AP)