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Mexico Sues MrBeast’s Media Firm Over Unauthorized Use of Maya Temple Footage

The National Institute of Anthropology and History alleges violations of permit terms, while Mexican officials review sanctions for fabricated scenes and monetized content.

People gather to watch the solar eclipse at the Chichen Itza archaeological zone, in Piste, Mexico, October 14, 2023. REUTERS/Lorenzo Hernandez/File Photo
MrBeast Maya temple
MrBeast attends Love, Death + Robots - NY Special Screening at the Paris Theater on May 13, 2025 in New York City.
Mexican officials are upset with a recent video featuring the country's temple, made by the popular YouTube creator seen here, MrBeast

Overview

  • MrBeast’s video, released May 10, 2025, featuring Maya archaeological sites, has garnered over 55 million views but faces backlash for staged scenes and unauthorized commercial use.
  • Mexico’s National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH) has filed a lawsuit against Full Circle Media, claiming the video violated permit terms by monetizing site imagery for private brand advertisements.
  • INAH confirmed that filming occurred under official permits and supervision but refuted fabricated scenes, including drone flights inside pyramids, helicopter landings, and handling of an authentic pre-Hispanic mask.
  • President Claudia Sheinbaum has called for a review of the conditions under which permits were granted and potential sanctions for any violations.
  • Federal Culture Secretary Claudia Curiel de Icaza criticized the misuse of sacred spaces and announced impending penalties, while INAH acknowledged the video’s potential to engage younger audiences with Mexico’s cultural heritage.