Mexico is seeking compensation and considering sanctions against the producers of a MrBeast video, accusing the U.S. YouTuber of exploiting ancient Mayan pyramids for commercial purposes. The video, which has over 60 million views, shows MrBeast (Jimmy Donaldson) exploring Mayan sites with a permit, but also promoting a chocolate product as a “Mayan dessert.”
According to the BBC, Mexican authorities claim the filming permit did not allow for commercial advertising or the spread of misinformation. They criticized scenes suggesting access to restricted areas and handling of ancient artifacts, calling them misleading and heavily edited. A MrBeast spokesperson denied filming ads at protected sites, saying the video was meant to promote cultural appreciation.
Mexico’s Secretary of Culture condemned the use of heritage for profit and said sanctions against Full Circle Media, the video’s producer, are being considered. President Claudia Sheinbaum has called for an investigation into the permit process