Wafric News – May 19, 2025

Mexico – Global YouTube sensation MrBeast has ignited a storm of controversy after releasing a video filmed at several of Mexico’s most revered archaeological sites, raising serious questions about cultural preservation, access, and privilege.

Jimmy Donaldson, known worldwide as MrBeast, released a video on May 10 that quickly went viral, racking up over 55 million views within days. The video features him and his team exploring iconic sites like Chichén Itzá in Yucatán—home to the famed Temple of Kukulkan, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World—along with visits to Calakmul in Campeche and Balamcanché in Yucatán.

While the visuals captivated his massive global audience, the content has sparked backlash for showcasing access to restricted areas—some of which are closed to tourists, researchers, and even archaeologists.

In the video, MrBeast remarks: “I can’t believe the government is letting us do this. It’s truly crazy. Not even archaeologists are allowed in here.” This statement raised alarms among cultural authorities and citizens alike, prompting official responses.

Government Reaction and Permit Questions

The National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH), Mexico’s authority on heritage sites, confirmed that MrBeast’s shoot was formally authorized—but not directly by him. According to their statement, the permissions came through the federal Ministry of Tourism and the regional governments of Yucatán and Campeche. MrBeast labeled the project a “collaboration with the Mexican Ministry of Tourism” in his video description.

President Claudia Sheinbaum weighed in on the matter, acknowledging that permits had indeed been issued for the broadcast, but emphasized the need to investigate the terms and compliance of the agreement. “If the permit was violated,” Sheinbaum said, “then sanctions must apply.”

Adding to the controversy is a drone shot that appears to fly inside the sacred pyramid of Kukulkan. INAH denied this, claiming the shot was recorded outside and digitally enhanced. Other contentious moments include a scene where MrBeast appears to arrive via helicopter and another where he handles what seems to be a pre-Hispanic artifact. Both scenes were called out by INAH as fictionalized and manipulated through post-production.

Who Gets Access—And Who Doesn’t?

Access to Mexico’s archaeological sites is tightly controlled, with laws stipulating that only the INAH or accredited scientific institutions may explore or film at these locations. Even then, applications for such permits involve a lengthy process and must meet specific legal and ethical standards.

An internal document from INAH released last September reaffirmed that any excavation or filming must be authorized under the Federal Law on Archaeological, Artistic, and Historical Monuments and Zones. Director José Francisco Javier Osorio León emphasized that only institutions with recognized credentials are typically granted access, and under strict conditions.

INAH clarified that while MrBeast’s crew entered certain areas typically closed to the public—like the substructure of Structure II in Calakmul—their activities were monitored and occurred in zones deemed safe for controlled visits. “The tours were conducted without disrupting access for general visitors,” the agency stated.

Cultural Leaders Speak Out

Mexico’s Federal Culture Secretary, Claudia Curiel de Icaza, criticized the filming, calling it inappropriate and disrespectful. “This isn’t the first time we’ve faced incidents like this,” she said during a public event. “Of course we do not agree, and there will be sanctions, because that is not the purpose of these sacred spaces.”

Despite the backlash, INAH did acknowledge that the video—while containing misleading elements—could generate interest in Mexican heritage among younger viewers globally. However, many cultural advocates argue that educational value must not come at the expense of sacred spaces or historical integrity.

Final Word

As the debate unfolds, what’s clear is that MrBeast’s latest viral hit has reignited global conversations about digital influence, ethical tourism, and the protection of cultural heritage. For many in Mexico, the concern goes beyond YouTube clicks—it’s about respecting the memory and spirit of ancient civilizations whose legacy lives on in stone.


By Wafric News Desk.