Michael Jackson has been named the highest‑paid deceased celebrity of 2025, according to a recent Forbes report. The late American singer and songwriter, often called the “King of Pop,” earned $105 million over the past year, far outpacing other late icons. Most of Jackson’s earnings came from the sale of a 50 % stake in his master recordings and publishing catalog to Sony Music in 2024, a transaction valued at $600 million that significantly boosted his estate’s revenue.
Other notable musicians—including Prince, John Lennon and Bob Marley—also appear on Forbes’ annual list of top‑earning deceased celebrities, occupying ten of the top thirteen spots. Together, this group generated $541 million in the past year. Since Jackson’s death in 2009, his estate has produced a staggering $3.5 billion in revenue, making him the most posthumously successful celebrity of all time. This figure underscores the enduring popularity and commercial viability of his music, as well as the effective management of his estate.
The Forbes report highlights the substantial earnings of deceased celebrities, with the top thirteen positions dominated by musicians. This trend reflects the lasting impact and appeal of their work and the ability of their estates to leverage intellectual property and brand value. As the music industry continues to evolve—shifting toward digital platforms and streaming services—the management of intellectual property and brand value will remain crucial in determining the commercial success of deceased celebrities’ estates. It will be interesting to see how these estates navigate new opportunities and challenges and how their earnings compare in the years to come.
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