In his video titled "I Explored 2000 Year Old Ancient Temples", MrBeast, whose real name is Jimmy Donaldson, showcases ancient Mayan sites, having attained a filming permit from local authorities. However, controversy erupted when the video, which has amassed over 60 million views in just a week, includes a segment in which MrBeast markets his chocolate product as a “Mayan dessert” and encourages viewers to make a purchase.
Mexican authorities assert that the filming permit granted to MrBeast did not authorize commercial usage. A representative for MrBeast has disputed some allegations, emphasizing that no promotional activities were filmed at any archaeological sites overseen by the National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH). The spokesperson suggested the video aimed to bring attention to the cultural significance of the Mayan sites, expressing disappointment over the political nature of the ensuing discourse.
Amid these claims, Mexico’s President, Claudia Sheinbaum, has launched an investigation into the terms of the filming permit. Though MrBeast acknowledges the assistance from Mexican tourism and governmental bodies, the content of the video has incited backlash. The footage includes scenes of the YouTuber and his team exploring restricted areas in Calakmul and Chichén Itzá, and even claims of descending into a pyramid from a helicopter. INAH has refuted the authenticity of these claims, describing them as misleading and accusing MrBeast of excessive editing.
Culture Secretary Claudia Curiel de Icaza stated that while permits were issued, there was no approval for the spread of misinformation or commercial use of images from heritage sites. She emphasized the importance of safeguarding archaeological sites as cultural legacies and indicated potential administrative sanctions against the production company, Full Circle Media, which facilitated the filming.
As the most-subscribed YouTube personality with an audience of 395 million, MrBeast’s recent content has reignited discussions about the commercial use of cultural heritage in media, with hopes that this incident could facilitate a more constructive dialogue on the matter.
Mexican authorities assert that the filming permit granted to MrBeast did not authorize commercial usage. A representative for MrBeast has disputed some allegations, emphasizing that no promotional activities were filmed at any archaeological sites overseen by the National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH). The spokesperson suggested the video aimed to bring attention to the cultural significance of the Mayan sites, expressing disappointment over the political nature of the ensuing discourse.
Amid these claims, Mexico’s President, Claudia Sheinbaum, has launched an investigation into the terms of the filming permit. Though MrBeast acknowledges the assistance from Mexican tourism and governmental bodies, the content of the video has incited backlash. The footage includes scenes of the YouTuber and his team exploring restricted areas in Calakmul and Chichén Itzá, and even claims of descending into a pyramid from a helicopter. INAH has refuted the authenticity of these claims, describing them as misleading and accusing MrBeast of excessive editing.
Culture Secretary Claudia Curiel de Icaza stated that while permits were issued, there was no approval for the spread of misinformation or commercial use of images from heritage sites. She emphasized the importance of safeguarding archaeological sites as cultural legacies and indicated potential administrative sanctions against the production company, Full Circle Media, which facilitated the filming.
As the most-subscribed YouTube personality with an audience of 395 million, MrBeast’s recent content has reignited discussions about the commercial use of cultural heritage in media, with hopes that this incident could facilitate a more constructive dialogue on the matter.
