Michael Jackson Reigns Supreme: Tops Forbes List Of Highest-Earning Dead Celebrities

The King of Pop's Unstoppable Legacy

Michael Jackson has once again proven that his legacy is as vibrant as ever, topping Forbes' list of highest-earning dead celebrities with an eye-popping $105 million in 2025. The King of Pop’s estate has been a financial powerhouse since his passing in 2009, amassing an astounding $3.5 billion. "When it comes to estate earnings, it’s MJ, then an enormous canyon, then everybody else," an estate attorney shared with Forbes, highlighting the unparalleled success of Jackson's posthumous ventures.

Major Deals and Unending Popularity

One of the significant contributors to this year's earnings was the sale of a 50% stake in his music catalog to Sony Music for a whopping $600 million in 2024. This colossal deal included improved royalty terms despite some opposition from his mother. But that's not all – Jackson's influence continues to shine on stage. His Las Vegas show, Michael Jackson ONE, celebrated over 5,000 performances this year, with plans to run until 2030. Meanwhile, Broadway's MJ: The Musical has grossed nearly $300 million worldwide since its debut in 2022.

“When it comes to estate earnings, it’s MJ, then an enormous canyon, then everybody else.”

Looking Ahead: Biopics and Rivals

Fans of the pop icon have more to look forward to. A biopic starring his nephew, Jaafar Jackson, is set to premiere in April 2026, promising to delve deep into the life and career of the legendary performer. Musicians continue to dominate the Forbes list, with icons like Prince, John Lennon, and Bob Marley joining Jackson in the top spots. It's clear that even in the afterlife, Michael Jackson's star continues to shine brightly, captivating audiences and generating massive revenue worldwide.