Take-Two CEO Strauss Zelnick Jokes AI Might Target Elon Musk's Job First

Take-Two Interactive CEO Strauss Zelnick has playfully suggested that Elon Musk should be wary of artificial intelligence potentially taking his job, following Musk's recent comments about AI possibly generating Grand Theft Auto 6. The gaming executive, who leads major subsidiaries like 2K and Rockstar Games, shared his perspective on technological advancements during a discussion at the Semafor World Economy 2026 event. While the conversation covered various topics, AI emerged as a key point of interest.

Zelnick expressed that people often focus too much on the negative risks of AI, despite its potential for misuse. He then shifted the discussion to Musk's relationship with AI, noting that while he sees AI as a valuable tool for everyday workers, he's less certain about the security of the billionaire X/Twitter owner's position. "If AI were going to eliminate jobs, Elon Musk—the world's richest man—knows a thing or two about AI," Zelnick remarked. "He has endless financial and human resources, plus a constant stream of ideas. He's deeply familiar with AI."

He added with a humorous tone, "The man works 20 hours a day. If AI were to replace anyone, wouldn't it target him first? Why is he so occupied? And why am I working harder than ever, even though I've fully integrated AI into my life?"

These comments come after an exchange on Musk's social media platform earlier this year, where Musk agreed with a post suggesting there's a chance we could see 'generate your own GTA 6 in minutes' before the official release. Rockstar's highly anticipated Grand Theft Auto 6, in development for about six years and set to be one of the biggest game launches ever, is scheduled for release on November 19, 2026.

Zelnick had previously responded more indirectly to Musk in March, calling the idea that AI could produce quality video games "laughable." He emphasized that while AI tools might assist in creating assets, they wouldn't guarantee hit games. He concluded his thoughts on Musk and AI with a lighthearted joke, suggesting Musk could be "a simulation," adding, "If you were to pick someone as a simulation, he'd be my top choice."

As GTA 6 is expected to launch later this year, fans can catch up on the fake Grand Theft Auto leaks that circulated on social media late last year while they wait.