Background on Mr. Beast (James Donaldson)
Mr. Beast, whose real name is James Donaldson, is a highly popular American YouTuber with over 396 million subscribers. Known for his extravagant stunts and philanthropic endeavors, he has become one of the most influential figures on the platform.
Controversial Video in Mexican Archaeological Sites
On May 10, Mr. Beast released a video titled “Exploré templos de 2,000 años de antigüedad” (I explored temples 2,000 years old) in the historic Mayan cities of Calakmul, Chichén Itzá, and Balamcanché. The video aimed to promote two brands: a chocolate line and a dried meat product.
Mexican Government’s Response
The Mexican government, through the National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH), took issue with the video, claiming that Mr. Beast’s production company used archaeological sites to promote commercial brands without authorization. INAH filed a lawsuit against Mr. Beast’s production company, alleging the unauthorized use of Mexico’s cultural heritage for commercial purposes.
Mr. Beast’s Response
In a statement on social media, Mr. Beast denied any lawsuit from the Mexican government. He emphasized his respect for Mayan culture and the Mexican people, asserting that he and his team were never served any legal documents.
Addressing Concerns
Mr. Beast clarified that the promotional scenes for the chocolate and dried meat brands were not filmed near the Mayan temples. He also mentioned that, during his visit, he financially supported “pozos y proyectos de agua” (wells and water projects) in the region. Furthermore, he stated that he is collaborating with INAH on “a fund to support Mexican archaeology.”
Key Questions and Answers
- Q: Was Mr. Beast sued by the Mexican government? A: No, Mr. Beast claims he has never been served any legal documents from the Mexican government.
- Q: What was the content of the controversial video? A: The video promoted a chocolate brand and a dried meat product in the Mayan cities of Calakmul, Chichén Itzá, and Balamcanché.
- Q: Why did the Mexican government take issue with the video? A: The government claimed that Mr. Beast’s production company used archaeological sites to promote commercial brands without authorization.
- Q: How did Mr. Beast respond to the allegations? A: Mr. Beast denied any lawsuit and clarified that the promotional scenes were not filmed near the Mayan temples. He also mentioned his financial support for water projects in the region and collaboration with INAH on a fund for Mexican archaeology.
