Michael Jackson remains the highest-paid deceased celebrity in 2025
An illustration depicts Michael Jackson on a throne of money in a graveyard, symbolizing his position as the highest-earning deceased celebrity in 2025 according to Forbes. | Illustration: Ashrafun Naher Ananna/TBS Creative
Forbes estimates that the "King of Pop," Michael Jackson, has earned more than $3.5 billion since his passing in 2009 and has featured 13 times as the highest-earning celebrity since Forbes began tracking them in 2001. Moreover, he has remained the top earner beyond the grave for three consecutive years since 2022.
This infographic ranks the top-earning deceased celebrities, with Michael Jackson leading at $105 million, followed by Dr. Seuss and Richard Wright.
*From sales, streams, licensing deals, estate acquisitions (made or announced), and other sources between 1 Oct 2024 and 30 Sep 2025
Source: Forbes
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