The Mexican authorities have threatened legal action this week regarding a video featuring YouTuber MrBeast, which was filmed at ancient Maya ruins and allegedly violated filming agreements.
The video, titled “I Explored 2,000 Year Old Ancient Temples,” was uploaded on Saturday and attracted over 60 million views by the end of the week.
In the video, a voice suggests that the filming location is off-limits, stating, “Everything you guys are seeing now the Mayans didn’t want us to see.” The site in question is Chichén Itzá, an archaeological location on the Yucatán Peninsula, recognized as a world wonder attracting two million visitors annually.
While visitors can explore the ruins, there are restrictions such as prohibitions against climbing the pyramids and remaining after dark. The video shows MrBeast, whose real name is Jimmy Donaldson, engaging in activities that appear to violate these rules, including climbing a pyramid and filming at night.
The video sparked outrage among some Mexicans, as it seemingly contradicted regulations enforced by the National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH), which governs archaeological sites in Mexico.
President Claudia Sheinbaum responded to the controversy by requesting a report on the circumstances surrounding the video’s filming, emphasizing the need for clarity regarding the permissions granted and potential violations.
Additionally, Mexico’s culture secretary, Claudia Curiel, stated on social media that authorities were considering legal action against Full Circle Media, the production company representing Mr. Donaldson in Mexico, for alleged misrepresentation and commercial exploitation of heritage sites.
In a statement, INAH condemned those who violate authorization terms, highlighting the importance of preserving the integrity of archaeological zones that represent Mexico's cultural heritage.
A representative for Mr. Donaldson declined to comment, and Full Circle Media could not be reached for immediate comment.
The video is similar to another one posted by Mr. Donaldson earlier this year, which showcased his visit to the pyramids of Giza and claimed unrestricted access to various locations.
On Monday, INAH clarified that the video from Mexico underwent extensive post-production, suggesting that some events depicted in the video did not occur, including claims of overnight stays and helicopter access.
The exact locations filmed in the video remain uncertain, as it is unclear how much was shot at Chichén Itzá versus other archaeological sites in the Yucatán Peninsula.
Despite the backlash, Mr. Donaldson has supporters, including Governor Layda Sansores of Campeche State, who expressed gratitude for his visit and encouraged complaints to be directed to her office.
The controversy has ignited a broad discussion on Mexican social media regarding the portrayal of Mexico’s history, perceptions of archaeology, and access to national heritage sites.
INAH has suggested that, despite the misleading information in the video, such content could inspire young audiences globally to engage with Mexico’s ancestral cultures and visit archaeological sites.