Grand Theft Auto 6 fans have conjured up an interesting theory regarding the game’s May 26, 2026, release date, as some believe that Rockstar has chosen the date in honor of Ray Liotta, who sadly passed away three years ago. While Liotta was best known for his roles in Goodfellas and Narc, the iconic actor also lent his voice to Tommy Vercetti in Grand Theft Auto: Vice City, which is why some believe Rockstar is aiming to honor the actor when the series returns to Vice City in Grand Theft Auto 6 next year.
If the theory proves to be true, it may not have always been Rockstar’s intention. When Grand Theft Auto 6 was first revealed to the world back in 2023, the studio confirmed that it was targeting a 2025 release date. This was then narrowed down even further later in the year, when Rockstar Games’ parent company, Take-Two Interactive, revealed that the highly anticipated title would be released in Fall 2025. Unfortunately, that is no longer the case, as Rockstar Games has delayed the launch of Grand Theft Auto 6 to May 26, 2026, in order to allow for more development time.
GTA 6 Fans Believe Its Release Date Is in Honor of Ray Liotta
At a glance, it may not seem like there’s much to Grand Theft Auto 6‘s new release date. However, this is the GTA community, so there are, of course, plenty of theories surrounding it. In the past, fans have speculated that the date is directly tied to Bonnie and Clyde’s funeral, as the duo was buried on May 26, 1934. However, fans now have a slightly different theory, as a post from Reddit user Don_Rawaz notes that Ray Liotta, who portrayed Tommy Vercetti in Grand Theft Auto: Vice City, passed away on May 26, 2022.
Both theories are perfectly plausible, but will likely never be confirmed or denied by Rockstar Games. As the game’s story revolves heavily around a Bonnie and Clyde partnership between Jason and Lucia, it would make sense that the game’s release date is a subtle nod to the American outlaws. But, at the same time, Grand Theft Auto 6 will return to Vice City for the first time in over two decades, so it would also make logical sense that Rockstar pay homage to one of the series’ most iconic characters and the Hollywood actor who portrayed him.
Rockstar is well-known for leaving many easter eggs and references in its titles, whether regarding real-world incidents, brands, or people, or referencing some of its previous games. Given that GTA 6 will be returning to Vice City, it wouldn’t be surprising if fans discover numerous references to Tommy Vercetti. Shortly after the game’s second trailer was released earlier this year, Grand Theft Auto 6 fans quickly spotted a Vice City easter egg, as they discovered a promotional image of Jason wearing a nearly identical shirt to Tommy Vercetti’s classic blue Hawaiian shirt.