Popular YouTuber MrBeast, whose real name is Jimmy Donaldson, is facing legal trouble in Mexico. The Mexican government has accused him of exploiting ancient Mayan pyramids for profit in a video titled “I Explored 2000 Year Old Ancient Temples.”
Released on May 10, 2025, the video has gained over 60 million views in just a week. It shows MrBeast and his team exploring restricted areas of iconic sites like Chichén Itzá and Calakmul.
Mexico’s National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH) granted a filming permit to Full Circle Media, the production company behind the video. However, officials claim the permit did not allow commercial use of the footage.
In the video, MrBeast promotes his Feastables Peanut Butter Cups, calling it a “Mayan dessert.” Authorities argue this violates the permit terms.
Legal Action and Public Backlash
The Mexican government has filed a lawsuit against Full Circle Media, demanding damages compensation. They also want a public retraction from misusing the country’s cultural heritage.
Officials are upset that sacred sites, seen as national pride, were being used for personal gain. Mexico’s Secretary of Culture, Claudia Curiel de Icaza, condemned the act, stating that such commercial pursuits distort the value of these historic locations.
Public and expert reactions are strong. Many viewers and archaeologists have criticized Mr Beast for accessing restricted areas. In the video, he even says, “I can’t believe the government is letting us do this,” raising questions about how such access was allowed.
False Claims in the Video
INAH also pointed out false information in the video. Claims like descending into a pyramid via helicopter or handling a real pre-Hispanic mask were staged or edited in post-production, according to officials. They called these “false assertions” meant for dramatic effect.
MrBeast’s Response
A spokesperson for MrBeast denied filming promotional content at archaeological sites. They clarified that the Feastables promotion was shot at a campsite, not on protected grounds.
The team expressed regret over the issue becoming political and said the video aimed to highlight Mexico’s rich heritage.
Mexico’s President Claudia Sheinbaum has ordered an investigation into how the filming permit was granted. For now, no public statement has come directly from MrBeast, who has over 395 million subscribers on YouTube.
