Popular American YouTuber MrBeast, often dubbed “the king of YouTube,” is facing backlash from Mexican authorities over a recent video that has sparked controversy for allegedly using historic Mayan sites for commercial purposes.
The video, which has already amassed over 60 million views in just a week, features MrBeast — real name Jimmy Donaldson — and his team exploring ancient Mayan ruins in Mexico. While the content was filmed with the necessary permits, authorities argue the video crossed a line.
In one segment, MrBeast promotes a chocolate product, referring to it as a "Mayan dessert" and encouraging viewers to make a purchase — a move that officials say turned the educational footage into an unauthorised commercial venture.
Mexico’s National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH) claims the permit issued did not include permission for any form of for-profit promotion or advertising at the archaeological sites.
A spokesperson for MrBeast denied any wrongdoing, telling the BBC that “no advertisement material was shot on any archaeological sites overseen by INAH.”
The Mexican government is now reportedly seeking compensation for what it describes as the unauthorised commercial use of its cultural heritage.