Khaby Lame, the Senegalese-Italian TikTok sensation, has officially risen to the top as the highest-paid Black content creator worldwide, according to Forbes. With an impressive social media following of over 255 million across various platforms, Lame has earned $20 million in the past 12 months, making him one of the most influential digital creators of our time.
Lame, known for his humorous, wordless videos that simplify and mock overly complicated “life hacks,” currently boasts 163 million followers on TikTok, solidifying his position as the platform’s most-followed creator. His unique, hands-off approach to humor has captivated millions, making him a standout among top content creators, many of whom rely on professional production teams. In contrast, Lame’s simple, relatable videos often feature him pointing out the obvious with a humorous shrug, a gesture that has become his signature move.
Before becoming a digital star, Lame worked as an industrial worker in Chivasso, Northern Italy. The pandemic brought an unexpected change to his life, as he was laid off from his job. Seizing this moment, he began posting funny and relatable videos on TikTok, quickly attracting a global audience. One of his most popular videos—garnering over 158 million views—features him “debunking” a video in which someone uses scissors to cut their T-shirt free from a car door. Instead, Lame simply opens the door and shrugs, a simple but hilarious twist that resonated widely.
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Beyond viral videos, Lame’s rise to fame has brought lucrative partnerships with major brands. He has inked deals with Hugo Boss, Fortnite, and Sony Pictures, along with a recent collaboration with Walmart to launch his own line of quirky cooking gadgets, including a garlic press and taco holder, branded under his name. These endorsements, alongside his earnings from social media, have propelled Lame to a $20 million annual income and earned him a spot as the tenth highest-paid content creator in the world, per Forbes’ 2024 Top Creator list.
In addition to brand partnerships, Lame has also been involved in high-profile campaigns. He served as an ambassador for Qatar National Bank (QNB) during the 2022 World Cup, representing the largest financial institution in the Middle East and Africa. He has also partnered with Binance, the cryptocurrency giant, to help dispel misconceptions about Web3 and promote exclusive NFT collections.
Lame’s journey from factory worker to digital superstar is a testament to his creativity and the power of social media to transform lives. His influence now extends beyond entertainment, as he continues to build a legacy as one of the most significant Black influencers in the world.
