Michael Jackson tops Forbes’ 2025 list of highest-paid deceased celebrities

Late American singer Michael Jackson has been crowned the highest-paid deceased celebrity of 2025 by Forbes magazine, raking in an estimated $105 million in pre-tax earnings.

The King of Pop’s financial dominance is attributed to a lucrative deal with Sony Music, where the estate sold a 50% stake in his master recordings and publishing catalog for a whopping $600 million.

Jackson’s estate has generated a sum of $3.5 billion since his passing in 2009, solidifying his position as the most posthumously successful celebrity of all time.

His Broadway hit, MJ: The Musical, has grossed nearly $300 million worldwide, while his long-running Las Vegas residency, Michael Jackson ONE, surpassed 5,000 performances this year.

Other notable musicians on Forbes’ annual list include Prince, John Lennon, and Bob Marley, who collectively earned $541 million in the past year.

Dr. Seuss secured the second spot with $85 million in earnings, driven by robust book sales and Netflix licensing deals. 

Pink Floyd co-founders Richard Wright and Syd Barrett each earned $81 million after Sony purchased the band’s catalog for $400 million.

Jackson’s influence extends beyond record sales, with his estate’s empire continuing to expand.

A highly anticipated biopic, “Michael,” starring his nephew Jaafar Jackson, is set to premiere in April 2026, expected to drive another wave of renewed interest and earnings.