The late American music legend, Michael Jackson, has once again proven that his legacy continues to shine beyond the grave as he tops the Forbes list of highest-paid deceased celebrities for 2025.
According to Forbes Magazine, the “King of Pop” earned an estimated $105 million in the past year alone—making him the highest-earning departed celebrity by a significant margin.
The bulk of Jackson’s earnings reportedly came from the 2024 sale of a 50% stake in his master recordings and publishing catalog to Sony Music, a deal worth an astonishing $600 million. This transaction has further solidified his posthumous financial empire, which remains unmatched in entertainment history.
Forbes noted that ten of the top thirteen positions on its annual list were occupied by late musicians, underscoring the enduring profitability of music legends. Among them were Prince, John Lennon, and Bob Marley, whose estates collectively pulled in a combined $541 million within the last year.
Since his passing in June 2009, Michael Jackson’s estate has amassed an estimated $3.5 billion, making him the most commercially successful deceased celebrity of all time. His influence continues to transcend generations, with his music, videos, and brand partnerships maintaining a global fan base.
Industry analysts attribute Jackson’s enduring dominance to the timeless appeal of his art and the strategic management of his estate, which has turned his name into a billion-dollar posthumous enterprise.
Even in death, Michael Jackson’s reign as the “King of Pop” remains unchallenged.
