Late American music legend Michael Jackson has once again proven his enduring legacy, emerging as the highest-paid deceased celebrity of 2025, according to Forbes.
The “King of Pop” reportedly earned $105 million over the past year — far surpassing other late icons on the list.
Forbes revealed that the bulk of Michael Jackson’s recent earnings stemmed from Sony Music’s 2024 purchase of a 50% stakein his master recordings and publishing catalog, a deal valued at $600 million.
Musicians dominated the rankings, claiming 10 of the top 13 spots, with names like Prince, John Lennon, and Bob Marley among the highest earners. Collectively, these late music icons generated $541 million in just one year.
Since his passing in 2009, Michael Jackson’s estate has amassed over $3.5 billion, cementing his status as the most commercially successful posthumous celebrity in history.
