Michael Jackson named highest-paid dead celebrity of 2025 by Forbes
-AFP
The King of Pop continues to reign supreme, even in death.
According to Forbes, Michael Jackson was the highest-paid deceased celebrity of 2025, earning an estimated $105 million over the past year.
Since his passing in 2009, Jackson’s estate has amassed over $3.5 billion, driven by blockbuster deals, a long-running Las Vegas residency, and successful stage productions.
Most recently, the estate sold a 50% stake in his master recordings and publishing catalog to Sony Music for $600 million, solidifying his status as one of the most valuable artists in history.
Jackson’s influence extends beyond record sales, his Broadway hit MJ: The Musical has grossed nearly $300 million worldwide, while Michael Jackson ONE in Las Vegas surpassed 5,000 performances this year.
His upcoming biopic Michael, starring nephew Jaafar Jackson, is expected to further boost his legacy when it premieres in April 2026.
Other late icons on Forbes’ list include Prince, John Lennon, and Bob Marley, but Jackson remains unmatched, both culturally and financially.