International News: Mexico accuses MrBeast of exploiting Mayan sites for profit

Published by BBNTEAM at May 17, 2025

Posted: Saturday, May 17, 2025. 10:09 am CST.

By Zoila Palma: Mexico has accused YouTuber MrBeast of commercially exploiting ancient Mayan pyramids in a video that has racked up over 60 million views.

The video, titled “I Explored 2000 Year Old Ancient Temples”, shows Jimmy Donaldson (MrBeast) and his team exploring archaeological sites in Mexico under a filming permit, BBC reports.

Authorities say while filming was authorized, using the footage to promote MrBeast’s chocolate brand—described in the video as a “Mayan dessert”—was not. Mexico’s Secretary of Culture, Claudia Curiel de Icaza, said the country does not approve of commercial use that distorts heritage.

MrBeast’s team denied shooting ads on protected sites, stating the chocolate promo was filmed at a separate camp location and aimed to promote cultural awareness.

However, the National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH) accused the video of presenting false claims, including edited scenes and misrepresentations of artifacts.

President Claudia Sheinbaum has called for an investigation, and authorities are considering sanctions against Full Circle Media, the production company behind the video.

Advertise with the mоѕt vіѕіtеd nеwѕ ѕіtе іn Belize ~ We offer fully customizable and flexible digital marketing packages. Your content is delivered instantly to thousands of users in Belize and abroad! Contact us at mаrkеtіng@brеаkіngbеlіzеnеwѕ.соm or call us at 501-612-0315.