Zelnick: “a lot of people” will call in sick
Short answer: Take-Two CEO Strauss Zelnick said back in April 2026 that he thinks a lot of people will be calling in sick on 19 November, GTA 6 launch day. With surveys now showing big jumps in day-off requests, his prediction looks close to coming true.
By Jake Morrison · Sources checked by GTA6Geek Editorial · Published · Last updated · 4 min read
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Speaking at the iicon conference in April 2026, Take-Two CEO Strauss Zelnick said he does “think a lot of people will be calling in sick on November 19”, the day GTA 6 launches. IGN reported the comment and Dexerto recapped it.
He also described Rockstar’s goal as “making the most spectacular piece of entertainment on Earth, in history”, and called it a pretty daunting challenge.
Is this real? Yes, reported by major outlets
Who said it: Strauss Zelnick, Take-Two CEO, at iicon (April 2026). Sources: IGN, Dexerto. Our view: An on-record quote from Take-Two’s CEO. Checked: 1 Nov 2026.
Is it coming true?
- HR data shows day-off requests up 17% for launch week.
- Employers in Australia are bracing for sick days.
- Some workplaces expect to be short-staffed on 19 November.
19 November 2026 is a Thursday, so one day off gives many players a four-day weekend. See the exact GTA 6 release time for your country.
Sources
Last checked: 1 Nov 2026. Labels: Official = Rockstar or platform holder, Reported = previews or press, Unconfirmed = not stated by Rockstar.
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Frequently asked questions
Did Take-Two say people will skip work for GTA 6?
Yes. CEO Strauss Zelnick said in April 2026 that he thinks a lot of people will be calling in sick on 19 November.
When does GTA 6 come out?
19 November 2026 on PS5 and Xbox Series X|S.
What day of the week is GTA 6 launch?
Thursday, 19 November 2026.
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