Michael Jackson is the top earning celebrity, dead or alive. The King of Pop’s estate pulled in an estimated $160 million between October 2012 and June 2013, beating the runner-up (Madonna) by $35 million, reports Forbes.
Jackson’s earnings come from various sources including two Cirque du Soleil shows performing his hits – one that tours and another that has a residency at the Mandalay Bay Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas. His holdings in Sony/ATV, record and merchandise sale, and more also helped pushed him to the top spot.
Other deceased earners on the list include Elvis Presley ($55 million), Peanuts creator Charles Schulz ($37 million), actress Elizabeth Taylor ($25 million) and Bob Marley ($18 million).
Do you know who the top earning celebrity dead or alive is? It’s none other than the King of Pop himself, Michael Jackson.
Despite his passing over a decade ago, his music and legacy continue to generate millions of dollars each year. From iconic hits like ‘Thriller’and ‘Billie Jean’to his groundbreaking dance moves and unforgettable fashion sense, Michael Jackson left an indelible mark on pop culture.
His influence can be seen in today’s music and entertainment industry, and it’s clear that fans are still eager to consume anything related to him. This has resulted in a steady stream of posthumous earnings for the late musician, making him one of the most successful deceased celebrities in history.
But what factors have contributed to this continued success? Let’s take a closer look.
The Continued Success of Michael Jackson’s Music and Legacy
You can’t help but feel the energy and passion in Michael Jackson’s music, even years after his passing. His songs continue to be played on the radio, used in movies and TV shows, and covered by new artists. The King of Pop’s legacy lives on through his music, dance moves, and fashion style.
Since his death in 2009, Michael Jackson has remained one of the top-earning celebrities year after year. In 2020 alone, he earned a staggering $48 million according to Forbes’ list of highest-earning dead celebrities. This is thanks to the continued success of his music catalog, which includes hits like ‘Thriller,”Billie Jean,’and ‘Beat It.’
Not only does Michael Jackson’s music still resonate with fans around the world, but his impact on pop culture is undeniable. His iconic dance moves have been imitated countless times by fans and fellow musicians alike. And who could forget his famous red leather jacket from the ‘Thriller’ video? Even today, it remains a popular Halloween costume choice.
All these elements contribute to keeping Michael Jackson’s legacy alive for generations to come.
Factors Contributing to Michael Jackson’s Posthumous Earnings
Discover what factors continue to fuel the late pop star’s impressive earnings years after his passing. One of the main contributing factors is the continued popularity of Michael Jackson’s music. Fans around the world still listen to and enjoy his songs, with many new generations discovering his music for the first time. This has led to a consistent stream of revenue from album sales, streaming platforms, and merchandise.
Another factor is Michael Jackson’s enduring legacy as a cultural icon. He wasn’t just a musician but also a symbol of creativity, innovation, and individuality. His impact on fashion, dance, and performance art continues to inspire artists in various fields today. The timeless nature of his work means that he remains relevant even decades after his death.
Strategic marketing and business decisions by those managing Jackson’s estate have helped to maximize his posthumous earnings. They’ve released previously unreleased material such as concert footage or demos, which fans are eager to own. Additionally, collaborations with other musicians or partnerships with brands have kept Michael Jackson’s name in the public consciousness and contributed to ongoing financial success.
Overall, it’s clear that multiple factors are at play when it comes to Michael Jackson’s incredible posthumous earning power. From ongoing fan support to savvy business decisions, this pop legend remains an influential force even years after he left us too soon.
Conclusion
So, there you have it! If you’re looking for the top earning celebrity, dead or alive, Michael Jackson is your guy.
His music and legacy continue to thrive even after his passing, thanks in part to factors such as savvy estate management and ongoing interest from fans around the world.
Whether you’re a die-hard MJ fan or simply admire his incredible talent and impact on the music industry, there’s no denying that he remains one of the most influential figures of all time.
So sit back, relax, and enjoy some of his greatest hits – because with earnings like these, it’s clear that Michael Jackson’s influence will be felt for generations to come.
Founder and Creator of Singersroom.com and IncredibleWork.com. Follow me on Instagram at @gary.gentles.
