Mexico accuses MrBeast of exploiting Mayan pyramids

In a recent controversy, Mexican authorities have accused popular YouTuber MrBeast, whose real name is Jimmy Donaldson, of exploiting the ancient Mayan pyramids for commercial purposes. The video titled 'I Explored 2000 Year Old Ancient Temples' features MrBeast and his team exploring significant archaeological sites in Mexico, and it has garnered over 60 million views in just a week. While MrBeast had obtained a permit to film at these historical locations, the government claims he violated the terms of that permit by using the footage for profit. In the video, MrBeast promotes a chocolate product as a 'Mayan dessert' and encourages his viewers to purchase it. Mexican officials have stated that although they allowed him to film, they did not give permission for any commercial use of the footage. A representative for MrBeast has denied these allegations, asserting that no promotional material was filmed at the archaeological sites managed by the National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH). The spokesperson explained that the scene featuring the chocolate snack was filmed at a different location, not at the pyramids. They emphasized that the intention behind the video was to showcase the beauty and significance of the Mayan sites, expressing disappointment that the situation has escalated into a political matter. They hope this can lead to a constructive conversation about the importance of these historical treasures. In response to the situation, Mexico's President Claudia Sheinbaum has called for an investigation into how the filming permit was granted. In the video's description, MrBeast expresses gratitude to the Mexican tourism and government authorities for allowing him to film, while also including links to his chocolate product. The video captures MrBeast and his team exploring restricted areas within the Mayan cities of Calakmul and Chichén Itzá. At one point, MrBeast exclaims, 'I can't believe the government's letting us do this. ' The footage also shows them descending into a pyramid from a helicopter and interacting with what appears to be an ancient pre-Hispanic mask. However, heritage authorities have labeled these claims as 'false assertions,' accusing MrBeast of spreading misinformation. INAH stated that MrBeast never held a genuine pre-Hispanic mask and that the video contained extensive post-production editing, particularly in the helicopter scene. They described these claims as part of the theatricality associated with the YouTuber. Claudia Curiel de Icaza, Mexico's Secretary of Culture, stated that while they authorized the filming permit, they did not permit the dissemination of false information or the use of images from heritage sites for commercial advertising. She expressed disapproval of any commercial endeavors that misrepresent the value of archaeological sites, which are a vital part of Mexico's indigenous heritage and national pride. Curiel de Icaza also mentioned that while Mexico welcomes content that promotes the understanding and appreciation of its archaeological and cultural heritage, it firmly opposes those who exploit the goodwill of institutions. She indicated that INAH would consider 'administrative sanctions' against Full Circle Media, the company that was granted the filming permit. The BBC has reached out to Full Circle Media for comments regarding the situation. MrBeast, often referred to as the King of YouTube, is the most-subscribed individual on the platform, boasting an impressive 395 million followers. His video featuring the Mayan pyramids was released on May 10.