Fox News reported that the upcoming release of Grand Theft Auto VI on Nov. 19, 2026 could cost the U.S. economy roughly $1 billion as large numbers of workers line up paid time off or call in sick.
The Fox News article said experts predict the economic hit will occur on the game’s release day and noted many people have already planned sick days or PTO for Nov. 19 and Nov. 20, 2026, according to the report.
The story also referenced ongoing public attention surrounding the game — including delays, leaks and promotional activity — and said Rockstar’s Vice City setting has been highlighted in recent promotional tie-ins, including a Miami Heat jersey tease the night before the game’s release, Fox News reported.
The reporting appeared in Fox News on Oct. 20, 2026.
Jon Ross Myers is the executive editor and publisher of the Mississippi News Network, Mississippi's largest digital only media company. He can be reached at editor@tippahnews.com
