Grand Theft Auto 6 is already under the microscope months before its release, and now fans are buzzing about a subtle—but noticeable—change to an NPC shown in both of the game’s trailers. While Rockstar Games hasn’t issued any formal explanation, speculation is swirling that the redesign may be tied to a TikTok user who claimed the character was based on him.
GTA 6 Delay and Visual Overhaul
The much-anticipated release of GTA 6 has been officially pushed to 2026, a delay that disappointed fans but also highlighted the continuing graphical evolution of the title. The visual jump between the first and second trailers suggests Rockstar is still polishing the game’s look and feel. That includes updates to even minor NPCs—like the one now at the center of a minor controversy.
The NPC in Question
Fans—including the community tracker GTAVI_Countdown—have spotted changes to a background character who appears briefly in both trailers. In the first, he’s seen greeting a friend, while in the second he poses for a camera with another character.
While the NPC retains the same general outfit, several features have been altered:
- A new hairstyle and different facial hair
- A backwards cap added
- His sunglasses have changed in style, now sporting translucent lenses
A TikTok Claim Sparks Speculation
Shortly after the first trailer dropped, TikToker zoeepoppyy posted a video alleging the NPC bore a striking resemblance to him. He accused Rockstar of using his likeness without permission and jokingly demanded compensation, stating: “GTA. I need my money, man.”
The timing of the character’s visual changes has led many to believe Rockstar adjusted the NPC to distance it from the TikTok user’s claim. Whether or not that’s true, it’s not the first time the developer has faced such accusations.
Not Rockstar’s First Rodeo
Rockstar has been accused before of mimicking real-life individuals in its games:
- The self-proclaimed Florida Joker accused GTA 6’s trailer of featuring a character modeled after him.
- Lindsey Lohan famously filed a lawsuit against Rockstar for allegedly using her likeness in GTA 5 promotional material—though she ultimately lost the case.
In zoeepoppyy’s case, the claim appears to have gained little traction. While some fans initially saw the resemblance, others dismissed the video as a publicity stunt, pointing out that fashion and appearances are too generic to prove any direct copying.
Conclusion
Whether Rockstar adjusted the NPC’s look to avoid legal trouble or simply as part of its ongoing development process remains unclear. Either way, it’s a reminder of how much scrutiny even minor background characters receive when you’re the most anticipated game of the decade.
GTA 6 may still be a year away, but its every frame is already being dissected—and redesigned—in real time.
