Mexico Accuses YouTube Star MrBeast of Misusing Mayan Heritage Sites for Commercial Gain

TDT | Manama

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YouTube megastar MrBeast, whose real name is Jimmy Donaldson, is facing accusations from Mexican authorities over his recent viral video filmed at ancient Mayan archaeological sites. The video, titled “I Explored 2000 Year Old Ancient Temples,” has garnered over 60 million views since its release on May 10.

Mexico’s National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH) claims that the video, which features MrBeast exploring restricted areas of the Calakmul and Chichén Itzá sites, violated the terms of a government-issued filming permit. While INAH confirmed that permission had been granted for filming, it stated that the permit did not allow for any commercial or promotional content — including the chocolate product MrBeast branded in the video as a “Mayan dessert.”

In an official statement, INAH alleged that the video included “false assertions,” such as scenes showing MrBeast descending into a pyramid via helicopter and handling a pre-Hispanic artifact. These segments, according to the agency, were fabricated or edited in post-production to dramatize the experience.

“All of these are false assertions that obey the theatricality of the YouTuber in question,” the INAH said in its statement.

Claudia Curiel de Icaza, Mexico’s Secretary of Culture, condemned the use of archaeological heritage for marketing purposes, saying such content distorts the cultural and historical value of these sites.

“We disapprove of any commercial pursuit that distorts the value of archaeological sites, which are a legacy of our indigenous cultures and the pride of our nation,” she said.

The video was produced by Full Circle Media, and Mexican authorities have confirmed that potential sanctions against the company are under review. President Claudia Sheinbaum has also ordered a formal investigation into the issuance and potential misuse of the filming permit.

A representative for MrBeast told the BBC that no promotional material was filmed on archaeological grounds and defended the video's content, stating it was “meant to highlight these treasured Mayan sites” and that it is “unfortunate this has turned into a political issue.”

As of now, MrBeast, who remains the most-followed individual creator on YouTube with over 395 million subscribers, has not issued a public statement regarding the controversy.