Khaby Lame — the silent star whose facial expressions speak louder than words — has quietly left the United States after being briefly detained by immigration authorities in Las Vegas.
The 25-year-old TikTok sensation, who rose to global fame during the pandemic for wordlessly mocking overly complicated “life hacks,” was held by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) at Harry Reid International Airport on Friday. Authorities cited that Lame had overstayed his visa since arriving on April 30. Though the encounter could have ended in a deportation order, he was granted a voluntary departure — a softer outcome that avoids a black mark on his immigration record.
A spokesperson from ICE confirmed the situation, noting that Lame was not forcibly removed. Instead, he chose to leave the U.S. on his own terms, a move that spares him the harsh restrictions typically associated with deportation — including being banned from reentering the country for years.
Khaby Lame, whose full name is Seringe Khabane Lame, has not issued a public statement, and messages sent to his listed contacts have gone unanswered. His silence, in this case, mirrors the very style that made him beloved by millions — an understated, expressive presence that requires no dialogue to connect with people worldwide.
Born in Senegal and raised in Italy by working-class parents, Lame holds Italian citizenship. In recent years, he evolved from TikTok comedian to international icon — partnering with Hugo Boss, gracing the Met Gala red carpet just weeks ago, and being named a UNICEF goodwill ambassador earlier this year.
His detainment comes at a politically sensitive time, as U.S. immigration enforcement actions increase under the leadership of former President Donald Trump, triggering protests and renewed debate across the country.
For now, Khaby’s journey in the U.S. hits pause — but his global influence continues, undeterred by borders.
