YouTube’s 20th birthday video sneaks in GTA 6 clip at 52-second mark

YouTube celebrated its 20th birthday on April 23, 2025, with a nostalgic and party-themed video called "It's Our Birthday, Let's Party." The site commemorated two decades of going viral, creators, and internet culture. It was, however, a surprise appearance by Rockstar Games' Grand Theft Auto VI that garnered the most interest, particularly for gamers who have been waiting for the title's launch.


The birthday video, lasting slightly more than a minute, features a brief clip of Grand Theft Auto VI at the 52-second mark. The scene depicts Lucia, one of the game's protagonists, sitting in the passenger seat of a car with a pile of cash in her hand. The clip is taken directly from the official trailer for the game released in December 2023 and is one of the most identifiable scenes from that trailer.
Though the clip itself is only a second long, its placement in YouTube's celebratory montage says a lot. Rockstar Games has been notoriously discerning about the content it chooses to promote, so the fact that this scene has been included indicates an explicit reference by either YouTube or Rockstar to one of the most hyped future releases in gaming history. The audience was quick to spot the scene and shared screenshots and reaction across social media within hours.

Apart from the surprise GTA 6 reveal, YouTube's birthday film is a colorful celebration of its journey over the years. The montage includes classic viral hits, notable creators, pop culture events, and references to fads that defined online entertainment. From its humble roots in its initial upload, "Me at the zoo", to the present as a worldwide media giant, the film embodies what YouTube has been to creators and viewers.
The addition of GTA 6 gives a modern feel, recognizing the cultural significance of the game prior to its release. It also shows how gaming has become synonymous with YouTube's identity over the years, as Let's Plays, livestreams, and trailers have collectively gathered billions of views.
YouTube's 20th birthday party was both a nostalgic nod and a timely reminder of what's to come. With the GTA 6 sneak peek hidden in the montage, fans were treated to an unexpected surprise, making the event all the more memorable.
Also Read: Why GTA 6 likely won’t come to the Nintendo Switch 2 in the near future