Khaby Lame, the most-followed TikTok creator in the world, was briefly detained by US immigration officials after overstaying his visa during a visit to the United States. The 25-year-old Italian national was stopped at Harry Reid International Airport in Las Vegas on June 6, according to a statement from US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
Authorities confirmed that Lame entered the US on April 30 and remained beyond the authorized period. He was detained for immigration violations but released the same day under a “voluntary departure” arrangement. Lame has since left the country, and as of Saturday afternoon, he had not made any public statements regarding the incident.
With over 162 million followers on TikTok, Khaby Lame has built an international reputation through his short, silent videos that poke fun at overly complex life hacks. His signature expression, open palms raised and a bemused smile, has become widely recognized across social media.
Lame’s journey to global fame began after losing his job as a factory mechanic in Chivasso, near Turin, in March 2020. Using the time during Italy’s lockdown, he started posting videos that quickly went viral for their simplicity and humor. His ability to connect with audiences without using words made him stand out in a crowded digital space.
Beyond social media, Lame was appointed a UNICEF goodwill ambassador, further highlighting his impact and influence. According to Forbes, he earned an estimated $16.5 million through brand deals between June 2022 and September 2023, making him one of the highest-paid internet personalities during that period.
Despite the immigration hiccup, Khaby Lame’s online popularity shows no signs of slowing down. His clean, relatable content continues to attract millions, reinforcing his position as a top global digital creator.
By Risper Akinyi