amynicole – Mexico has accused US YouTuber MrBeast, real name Jimmy Donaldson, of exploiting ancient Mayan pyramids for commercial purposes in his latest video. The country claims that authorities did not authorize the filming for promotional material. MrBeast’s use of these historical sites to advertise his chocolate product has sparked controversy. Authorities are seeking compensation from MrBeast and the production company, Full Circle Media.
The Video and Its Controversial Promotion
MrBeast’s video, titled “I Explored 2000 Year Old Ancient Temples,” showcases his exploration of ancient Mayan cities with a filming permit. The video has garnered more than 60 million views since its release. However, in one segment, MrBeast promotes his chocolate as a “Mayan dessert” and encourages viewers to buy it. This has raised concerns, as the filming permit was granted for educational purposes, not commercial exploitation.
Official Response and Denial of Accusations
Mexico’s National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH) has criticized MrBeast for commercializing the Mayan heritage sites. Although the influencer’s representative denied the accusations. Stating that no advertisements were filmed at the archaeological sites themselves, Mexico’s authorities remain firm in their position. The YouTuber’s team clarified that the chocolate promotion occurred at a campsite, not within the restricted archaeological zones.
The Misleading Claims and Misinformation Allegations
Heritage authorities have contested several scenes in the video. MrBeast and his team explore restricted areas at the Mayan cities of Calakmul and Chichén Itzá. They also appear in a helicopter near a pyramid and handle an ancient pre-Hispanic mask. Mexican authorities argue that these scenes are fabricated, with INAH stating that MrBeast never held a real pre-Hispanic mask and that the video edited the helicopter footage.
Cultural Heritage Concerns and Potential Sanctions
Claudia Curiel de Icaza, Mexico’s Secretary of Culture, has expressed disapproval of MrBeast’s actions. She stated that while Mexico welcomes content that showcases its rich cultural heritage. It opposes any use of archaeological sites for commercial purposes. The Secretary added that the use of heritage sites for advertising violates the principles of preserving and respecting indigenous cultures. INAH has indicated that it may impose administrative sanctions on Full Circle Media, the company that facilitated the filming.
The Broader Implications and MrBeast’s Response
MrBeast, who has over 395 million subscribers on YouTube, continues to defend the video as an effort to highlight the importance of Mayan heritage sites. He thanked Mexican tourism and government authorities for allowing him to film. However, the controversy surrounding his commercial use of these sites and the accusations of misinformation threatens to overshadow his intentions. Mexico’s President, Claudia Sheinbaum, has called for an investigation into how the authorities granted the filming permit, further complicating the situation.
In conclusion the conflict between MrBeast and Mexican authorities highlights the delicate balance. Between using cultural heritage sites for educational purposes and respecting their integrity. While MrBeast’s video has contributed to widespread attention for these ancient Mayan sites. It has also triggered a significant backlash due to commercial exploitation concerns.
