TikTok sensation Khaby Lame, with over 162 million followers, was briefly detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) at Las Vegas's Harry Reid International Airport earlier this month. ICE stated that the 25-year-old Italian–Senegalese influencer had overstayed his visa after arriving in the U.S. on April 30.

Instead of facing formal deportation, Lame was granted a voluntary departure on June 6 and has since left the country, preserving his ability to return without the hefty restrictions a deportation order would carry. His removal occurs amid a broader wave of intensified immigration enforcement under the Trump administration - marked by ICE raids in L.A. and debates over presidential authority .

Lame’s silence on the incident persists; no official statement has emerged from him or his team. Known for his mute comedic reactions mocking complicated life-hacks, Lame has woven an extraordinary career through social media. His stint in the U.S. included appearances at the Met Gala and major brand collaborations, including Hugo Boss, Google, and Pepsi.

This unexpected turn raises red flags about immigration rules facing global influencers, even as Lame continues to build his international presence.