Jimmy Donaldson, better known as YouTube megastar MrBeast, has found himself in hot water in Mexico after filming at several of the country’s most treasured archaeological sites — some of which are off-limits to the public.
In a video posted on May 10, which has already racked up over 55 million views, MrBeast toured famous sites like Chichén Itzá, home to the iconic Temple of Kukulkan, as well as Calakmul in Campeche and Balamcanché in Yucatán.
The controversy however stems from the fact that certain areas he appeared in are typically restricted, considered sacred by Mexico’s pre-Hispanic cultures.
In the video, MrBeast even remarks: “I can’t believe the government is letting us do this. Not even archaeologists are allowed in here.”
Mexico’s National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH) confirmed that the filming was officially permitted — though the requests came from Mexico’s Ministry of Tourism and local state governments, not MrBeast himself.
The YouTuber described the project as a “collaboration with the Mexican Ministry of Tourism.”
However, the video raised eyebrows for scenes suggesting the team descended by helicopter into restricted areas, held ancient masks, and filmed from inside the Kukulkan temple — acts strictly prohibited.
INAH later clarified that these shots were either staged, involved contemporary replicas, or enhanced through post-production.
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum called for a review of the permits, asking INAH to clarify the terms under which access was granted and whether any rules were violated.
Culture Secretary Claudia Curiel de Icaza also criticized the stunt, promising sanctions if regulations were broken.
While permits for exploring Mexico’s ancient sites are typically limited to scientific institutions and subject to strict conditions under federal law, INAH acknowledged that supervised access was granted to certain areas not generally open to the public.
Despite the uproar, officials noted the video’s potential to inspire younger audiences to learn about Mexico’s rich heritage — albeit through a more respectful and regulated lens.
MrBeast’s Vast Business Empire
The controversy comes as MrBeast continues to expand his media and business empire. In 2024, his company Beast Industries reportedly earned $473 million in revenue, with projections to nearly double that to $899 million in 2025.
Beyond his YouTube dominance — boasting over 380 million subscribers — Donaldson runs ventures like Feastables (a booming chocolate brand), a collectible toy line called MrBeast Lab, and packaged food brand Lunchly, created with fellow YouTubers Logan Paul and KSI.
Despite being valued at $5 billion, MrBeast claimed in a recent interview that while he’s a billionaire on paper, he keeps less than $1 million in cash — choosing instead to reinvest heavily in his businesses.
