The question of whether Phil Cassidy will make an appearance in GTA 6 has been a hot topic of discussion ever since Rockstar Games released the second trailer on May 6, 2026. The trailer showcased an NPC bearing a striking resemblance to the character Phil Cassidy from previous GTA games. While this has sparked speculation among fans, the likelihood of Phil Cassidy’s return in GTA 6 is slim, and here’s why.
In the second trailer of GTA 6, if you pause at 2:09 minutes, you can spot an in-game TV advertisement featuring an NPC named Phil who runs an Ammu-Nation Store in Leonida. This character shares similarities with the Phil Cassidy from Grand Theft Auto Vice City, who was known for dealing in arms and weapons. However, there are discrepancies that cast doubt on the NPC being the same Phil Cassidy from previous games.
One major inconsistency is the timeline. The events of Grand Theft Auto Vice City took place in 1986, where Phil Cassidy lost his left arm in an explosion. In the subsequent game, Grand Theft Auto 3, he was seen with only his right arm. The NPC in the GTA 6 trailer, on the other hand, appears to have both arms intact, suggesting a deviation from the established timeline.
Moreover, Rockstar Games has never reintroduced characters from the 3D Universe into the HD Universe physically. While references to old characters may exist in GTA 4 and GTA 5, they have never made a direct appearance. This tradition makes it unlikely for Phil Cassidy to be brought back in GTA 6 as a physical character.
As we await the release of GTA 6, only time will tell if the speculation about Phil Cassidy’s return holds true. Until then, fans can only speculate on the fate of this beloved character in the upcoming game.
