MrBeast Sparks Controversy in Mexico Over Filming at Ancient Mayan Sites

Jimmy Donaldson, famously known as MrBeast, has once again found himself in the centre of controversy—this time in Mexico. On May 10, the world’s most-subscribed YouTuber (with over 394 million subscribers) released a video titled “I Survived 100 Hours In An Ancient Temple.” Within days, the video amassed over 55 million views, but it also drew criticism for its portrayal of access to sacred archaeological sites.

The video showcases MrBeast and his crew exploring some of Mexico’s most iconic pre-Hispanic landmarks, including the renowned Chichén Itzá, Calakmul in Campeche, and Balamcanché in Yucatán. These sites are under the protection of the National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH), and many of the areas featured are typically off-limits to the general public due to their cultural and historical significance.

What ignited the backlash was a statement made by MrBeast in the video: “I can’t believe the government is letting us do this. It’s truly crazy. Not even archaeologists are allowed in here.” This, coupled with scenes depicting helicopter descents, drone footage over El Castillo, and MrBeast holding what is claimed to be a thousand-year-old funerary mask, raised concerns about potential violations of cultural heritage regulations.

However, INAH quickly responded with a statement on May 12, clarifying that the filming was permitted through formal requests—not by MrBeast himself—but by Mexico’s federal Ministry of Tourism and the state governments of Yucatán and Campeche. The institute emphasized that MrBeast’s activities were closely monitored and conducted in areas generally open to the public, with additional access to restricted sections granted under specific supervision.

INAH also addressed the “misleading” content presented in the video. They stated that no drone was flown inside El Castillo, no one descended via helicopter, and no authentic pre-Hispanic artifacts were handled. The funerary mask seen in the video, they explained, was a modern reproduction, and no overnight stay occurred at any site.

While government permits did authorize the shoot, President Claudia Sheinbaum requested an investigation into the scope of those permits and whether any conditions were violated. Federal Culture Secretary Claudia Curiel de Icaza expressed disapproval, emphasizing that sacred spaces must be respected and are not meant for entertainment purposes.

Despite the controversy, INAH acknowledged the positive side of the video’s reach. The institute noted that MrBeast’s enormous global platform could spark curiosity and appreciation among young viewers about Mexico’s rich ancestral history and culture—an outcome they cautiously welcomed.

This incident is part of a pattern seen in other MrBeast productions, where elaborate challenges are set against the backdrop of iconic historical locations. Previous videos have featured the pyramids of Egypt and underground cities in Romania. While such content walks a fine line between entertainment and education, it’s clear that transparency and respect for cultural heritage remain critical.