MrBeast’s Mexico Filming Stirs Cultural Debate

Mexico City — The visit of American YouTuber MrBeast to the archaeological zones of Calakmul and Chichén Itzá has ignited controversy on social media and among researchers and cultural advocates. The National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH) confirmed that the visit was authorized but faced scrutiny over special access granted to restricted areas.

INAH Defends Authorization Amid Criticism

The INAH stated that the filming in Calakmul (Campeche), Chichén Itzá, and Balamcanché (Yucatán) was conducted under formal requests from Mexico’s federal Tourism Secretariat and the governments of Campeche and Yucatán. The production also paid the required legal fees for access.

The institute acknowledged that the video contains extensive post-production effects and includes fictionalized events, such as claims that the crew descended from a helicopter, stayed overnight at the site, or possessed a pre-Hispanic mask. “These are false assertions consistent with the YouTuber’s theatrical style,” the INAH clarified.

Despite the dramatization, the institute argued that such content could spark interest among young audiences worldwide in Mexico’s ancestral cultures and archaeological heritage.

Archaeologists Question Permits and Misinformation

Archaeologist Adriana Velázquez, director of INAH Campeche, confirmed that the permit was approved by the institute’s legal office. She emphasized that MrBeast did not stay overnight at Calakmul but lodged at Hotel Calakmul. The tour of the site was accompanied by Guatemalan archaeologist Ernesto Arredondo, hired by the production, and involved an “improvised discussion” rather than a scripted presentation.

Velázquez clarified that the video is not academic. “It’s aimed at a young audience, with heavy production and effects that aren’t always accurate. Those seeking deeper knowledge should consult INAH’s academic materials.”

When asked about misinformation, she responded, “It’s expected for this genre. An academic video would not include such elements.”

Special Access and Nighttime Filming Raise Concerns

Critics questioned why MrBeast was allowed into Calakmul’s restricted Structure II, typically off-limits to the public. Velázquez explained that such exceptions are occasionally granted, including for collaborations with Mexico’s National Commission of Natural Protected Areas.

She denied claims of an overnight stay, stating filming occurred during extended hours, with nighttime shots taken around 7:00 p.m. The Campeche government supported the visit as a tourism promotion effort. Calakmul currently receives about 4,000 monthly visitors but has the capacity for double that number.

In Chichén Itzá, archaeologist Guadalupe Espinosa confirmed MrBeast’s two-day visit for promotional content, supervised by archaeologist Guillermo de Anda. A high-range drone was authorized but kept 50 meters from the pyramid under strict oversight.

Social Media Backlash Over Dramatized Claims

Online critics condemned scenes suggesting nighttime exploration, helicopter landings, and overnight stays. The INAH reiterated that these were fabrications for entertainment purposes.

The controversy highlights tensions between cultural preservation and leveraging digital platforms for tourism promotion. While officials defend the economic potential, scholars warn against compromising historical accuracy for viral appeal.