Natasha Lyonne explains plane incident after taking sleeping medication, detained briefly by U.S. immigration agents

American actress Natasha Lyonne has clarified reports that she was removed from a Delta flight from Los Angeles to New York earlier this week. The 47-year-old star explained via X (formerly Twitter) that she had taken a prescription sleeping pill, Lunesta, after boarding the flight to help her rest during the overnight journey. Shortly after takeoff procedures began, crew members reportedly struggled to get her attention and asked her to leave the plane after she appeared disoriented. Lyonne stated she was later detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) due to heightened airport security amid a government shutdown. She apologised to travellers affected by the delay, expressing her support for unpaid Transportation Security Administration staff and praising Delta Airlines and TSA for their professionalism. The actress had been scheduled to appear on The Drew Barrymore Show the next day but missed her appearance. The event followed her attendance at the Euphoria season three premiere in Hollywood, where she appeared in high spirits. Lyonne also addressed her ongoing recovery journey, having recently disclosed a relapse after nearly 10 years of sobriety. Known for roles in ‘Orange Is the New Black’ and ‘Poker Face’, Lyonne has been candid about her past struggles with addiction and her ongoing commitment to health and creative work, including her upcoming film project ‘Bambo’.