Natasha Lyonne sparks controversy after claiming she was ‘detained’ post-flight

Natasha Lyonne has claimed she was “detained” following a recent incident after being escorted off a flight departing Los Angeles for New York, a claim that has since been denied by U.S. authorities.

The 47-year-old actress addressed the situation on the social media platform X, describing what she said was a disruption during her travel plans after attending the Euphoria season 3 premiere. 

Lyonne stated she had taken the prescription sleep aid Lunesta after boarding a Delta One red-eye flight, explaining she intended to rest before a scheduled media appearance in New York.

“I took a Lunesta once seated, to ensure some shut eye on the Delta One red eye flight to NYC,” she wrote. 

Lyonne added that she boarded “seamlessly” and was “eager for a nap,” but later suggested that Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers were involved in removing her from the situation, writing, “I guess ICE had other plans and I was detained instead.”

She also referenced frustration over the disruption, apologizing to fellow passengers and thanking airport staff, while noting she had not previously experienced issues with either Delta Air Lines or TSA operations.

However, a spokesperson for the Department of Homeland Security, under which TSA operates, disputed Lyonne’s account, told People magazine, “Neither ICE nor TSA escorted or detained Natasha Lyonne.”

Delta Air Lines has not yet issued a public response regarding the incident or the actress’s claims.

Lyonne later posted a more cryptic message referencing the situation without offering further detail, expressing disappointment over a missed planned appearance with television host Drew Barrymore.

The actress, known for her work in film and television and her previous openness about personal struggles, did not provide additional clarification beyond her social media statements.