US immigration agents briefly detained Khaby Lame, the world’s most-followed TikToker, for an immigration violation before allowing him to voluntarily leave the country, authorities said on Saturday.
Visa Overstay Leads to Detention
According to US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), Lame — full name Seringe Khabane Lame, a 25-year-old Italian citizen — was detained on June 6 at Harry Reid International Airport in Las Vegas, Nevada.
He had entered the US on April 30 and “overstayed the terms of his visa,” the agency said.
Lame was released the same day and has since departed the United States. As of Saturday afternoon, he had not posted publicly about the incident.
Khaby Lame detained by US immigration
Global TikTok Star
Lame holds the top spot on TikTok, with over 162 million followers.
He rose to fame through short, silent videos mocking overly complicated online tutorials. His signature move — palms up, knowing smile, and wide eyes — has become a viral sensation.
He first began making content after losing his factory job in Chivasso, near Turin, during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020.
Financial Success and Global Recognition
Beyond social media fame, Lame is also a UNICEF goodwill ambassador.
According to Forbes, between June 2022 and September 2023, he earned an estimated $16.5 million from marketing deals.
Political Backdrop
The incident comes amid a broader tightening of US immigration policy under President Donald Trump, who has pushed for stricter controls and mass deportations — some of which face ongoing legal challenges.
For now, the beloved TikTok star continues to entertain millions, though this latest brush with immigration law adds an unexpected chapter to his remarkable journey.
In other news – PICS: A look into Ntando Duma’s dreamy white wedding
Popular South African actress, singer, and businesswoman, Ntando Duma and Una Rams have officially shared the news of their white wedding, months after privately saying “I do.”
The actress took to social media to unveil stunning photos from their intimate ceremony, which had remained under wraps until now. The reveal comes as the couple graces the cover of Previdar Weddings magazine’s June 2025 issue. Read More
