• Mou Mou
• 17 May, 2025

·      Do you think MrBeast’s video disrespected Mayan heritage.?

·      Mexico is seeking compensation from US YouTuber MrBeast

·      MrBeast’s viral video at ancient Maya sites has sparked a lawsuit in Mexico

YouTube sensation MrBeast, aka Jimmy Donaldson is caught in a firestorm with Mexican authorities. His viral video, “I Explored 2000 Year Old Ancient Temples,” showcasing Mayan ruins has sparked outrage for allegedly violating filming permits by promoting his chocolate brand. With over 60 million views, the video has drawn scrutiny from Mexico’s government, demanding compensation and a public apology. Here’s the full scoop on this trending controversy shaking social media and heritage circles.

Details & Context
On May 10th, 2025 MrBeast dropped a 15-minute video exploring iconic Mayan archaeological sites like Chichén Itzá and Calakmul. The video, part of his signature high-stakes adventure series showed him accessing restricted areas, climbing pyramids and even handling what appeared to be an ancient mask. A dramatic helicopter drop scene added flair but Mexico’s National Institute of Anthropology and History (@INAH) called foul, labelling these moments as “false assertions” created through heavy post-production editing.

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The controversy centers on MrBeast’s promotion of his Feastables chocolate brand, dubbed a “Mayan dessert” in the video. Mexican authorities claim the filming permit, issued to Full Circle Media, explicitly barred commercial use of the sacred sites. INAH condemned the monetisation, stating, “The heritage of the nation cannot be exploited by commercial enterprises.” President Claudia Sheinbaum has called for an investigation into how MrBeast gained access to restricted zones, fuelling public anger over perceived favouritism.

Social media platforms, especially X, are buzzing with reactions. Posts highlight local frustration with users like @LaRazon_mx noting MrBeast’s use of a drone over Chichén Itzá, a prohibited act and @Univ_Opinion criticizing his access to off-limits areas while locals are barred. The video’s caption, thanking Mexican tourism authorities while plugging Feastables has only deepened the backlash.

Quotes

·      INAH Statement: “The permission granted to Full Circle Media did not authorise the use of images of the archaeological site for for-profit advertisements of private brands.”

·      Mexico’s Secretary of Culture, Claudia Curiel de Icaza: “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.”

·      MrBeast’s Spokesperson: “No advertisement material was shot on any archaeological sites overseen by @INAH. This video was meant to highlight these treasured Mayan sites in Mexico.”

·      President Claudia Sheinbaum: “If the permit was violated, we will see what sanctions come.”

Additional Information
MrBeast with 395 million YouTube subscribers is no stranger to controversy but this clash with Mexico’s cultural guardians is his most high-profile yet. The video’s massive reach—60 million views in a week—has amplified the issue with hashtags like #MrBeastControversy and #MayanPyramids trending on X. @INAH clarified that while MrBeast’s team had permits, scenes like the helicopter drop and mask-handling were staged with the mask being a replica.

The lawsuit targets Full Circle Media not MrBeast directly with @INAH seeking “administrative sanctions” and compensation. Posts on X reveal mixed sentiments: some defend MrBeast, arguing his video boosts tourism while others like @INAHmx stress the need to protect cultural heritage. Despite the backlash @INAH acknowledged the video’s potential to spark interest in Mayan history among younger audiences.

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Impact Analysis
This controversy highlights the tension between modern content creation and cultural preservation. MrBeast’s global influence can drive tourism but his approach—blending adventure with product placement—risks trivialising sacred sites. The lawsuit could set a precedent for how influencers navigate heritage sites, especially in countries with strict regulations. For Mexico, it’s a chance to assert control over its cultural narrative but alienating global creators might deter future collaborations.

Social media engagement is soaring with #ProtectMayanHeritage and #MrBeastMexico gaining traction. The controversy has spiked searches for “MrBeast Mayan pyramids” and “Mexico archaeological sites” boosting visibility for both MrBeast and Mexico’s tourism sector. However, negative sentiment on X suggests a PR challenge for the YouTuber who has yet to comment publicly.

Conclusion
MrBeast’s Mayan adventure has ignited a global debate about respecting cultural heritage in the age of viral content. While his video showcases Mexico’s ancient wonders, the commercial overstep has left authorities and locals fuming. As Mexico pursues legal action, the world watches to see how this YouTube titan navigates the fallout. Will he apologise or double down.? Only time will tell but this saga underscores the delicate balance between influence and responsibility.

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