- The YouTuber used trips to ancient Mayan cities to advertise his own chocolate
- Mexico’s archaelogy and history institute has criticised the move
- In addition, the country wants the videos retracted
Mexico is seeking compensation from YouTuber MrBeast’s production company over use of footage of its archaelogical sites to advertise his chocolate brand.
The video in question is titled I Explored 2,000 Year Old Ancient Temples.. It finds the influencer exploring ancient Maya cities including Calakmul and Chichén Itzá in south-eastern Mexico. It was uploaded on 10 May.
Some users have also criticised him for getting access from the government to areas that Mexicans wouldn’t be able to access themselves.
Read more: MrBeast to rent Pyramids of Giza for latest stunt
In the video, MrBeast – real name James Donaldson – advertised his own brand snacks, which he claimed were “Mayan-approved”.
Nonetheless, he did make sure to thank Mexican tourism and government authorities for permission to film in the sites.
What did the National Institute of Archaeology and History say?
In their statement posted to social media, the organization said that although Mexico is “pleased that YouTubers and all the world’s young people appreciate the value of our indigenous civilisations” it “strongly condemns those who take advantage.”
In addition, they said that the permit given to Donaldson’s production company Full Circle Media did not authorise “the use of the image of the archaeological sites for the advertising of commercial brands for private profit”.
Read more: Mr Beast Event: What Happened at Las Vegas Event?
Subsequently, Mexico is “demanding compensation for damages and a public retraction, due to noncompliance with the terms,” it said.
What else has MrBeast’s team said?
A representative of Donaldson’s has denied the accusations.
They told the BBC: “No advertisement material was shot on any archaeological sites overseen by INAH (National Institute of Anthropology and History).”
Indeed, the scene where Donaldson shows off the chocolate dessert seems to be filmed at his campsite.
The spokesperson added that the video was “meant to highlight these treasured Mayan sites in Mexico” and that it was “unfortunate that this has turned into a political issue – hopefully it can lead to a productive dialogue and encourages people to visit these unique historical treasures”.
