A lawsuit has been confirmed against Full Circle Media, the production company representing popular YouTuber MrBeast, following a high-profile video that sparked controversy among Mexican authorities.
The National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH) has filed an administrative complaint against the company, seeking compensation for damages and a public retraction. The move comes in response to the content creator’s “I Survived 100 Hours Inside an Ancient Temple” video, which boasts over 60 million views but was filmed without proper authorization.
According to INAH, Full Circle Media failed to adhere to the terms of a bona fide permit issued by the institution and exploited Mexico’s archaeological heritage for private profit. The agency emphasized that this is unacceptable, stating: “The nation’s heritage, by its nature public, cannot be exploited by commercial companies.”
INAH Director Diego Prieto expressed his condemnation of those who prioritize financial gain over cultural preservation, saying: “The National Institute of Anthropology and History condemns those who, for commercial gain and private profit, dare to distort the value of archaeological sites, which are a legacy of our indigenous cultures and the pride of our nation.”
In related news, Campeche Governor Layda Sansores expressed disappointment with INAH’s decision, arguing that the state government should be involved in any discussions regarding the preservation of Campeche’s archaeological heritage.
Meanwhile, Full Circle Media has yet to comment on the lawsuit. However, Prieto emphasized the importance of safeguarding Mexico’s cultural assets and adhering to regulations put in place to protect them.
As a nation with a rich history, “the separation of political and economic power is an inalienable principle of the Fourth Transformation,” Prieto added.
The case highlights ongoing concerns about the commercialization of Mexico’s cultural heritage and the need for greater accountability among content creators.
Source: Excelsior
