MrBeast Faces Backlash Over Controversial Mayan Ruins Video in Mexico

A recent video featuring YouTube star MrBeast at the ancient Maya ruins of Chichén Itzá has garnered significant criticism and potential legal threats from Mexican officials due to reported violations of visitation regulations.

The Mexican government has announced potential legal repercussions against the production company behind MrBeast's latest video, which showcases the famed Maya ruins of Chichén Itzá. Released this past Saturday, the video titled "I Explored 2,000 Year Old Ancient Temples" rapidly accumulated over 60 million views, sparking debate over adherence to historical site regulations and responsibilities.

In the video’s opening segment, MrBeast, born Jimmy Donaldson, claims that the crew is venturing into areas that are off-limits to the general public, stating, "Everything you guys are seeing now the Mayans didn’t want us to see." The Huichol Michocan culture agency is now scrutinizing the footage for potential breaches concerning site access and filming agreements. Chichén Itzá, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its ancient pyramid structures, must be preserved and respected, as it attracts approximately two million visitors each year under specific regulations such as no climbing on structures and closing at night.

Throughout the 15-minute video, MrBeast is shown exploring both the interior of ruins and climbing structures, which has led to significant backlash from those who view it as a disregard for cultural heritage. Notably, the video features MrBeast displaying snacks from his Feastables brand, which he humorously claims are “the only Mayan-approved snack on the planet," adding fuel to the fire of criticism.

The swift viewership of MrBeast's video raises important questions about the responsibilities of influencers and their impact on cultural sites, as officials continue to deliberate on possible legal actions to hold the production responsible for its decisions.