It’s amazing to think that even after death, celebrities can still earn money. In 2020, the top-earning deceased celebrities brought in over $605 million. This shows that the legacy of these stars lives on, thanks to their fans and smart estate planning. Their wealth continues to grow, even though they are no longer with us.
Every year, Forbes puts together a list of these influential figures. Their earnings come from things like licensing deals and music royalties. This allows them to keep impacting the world and making money after their death. Let’s explore how these icons stay financially strong and keep their fame alive.
Key Takeaways
- Forbes yearly looks at how much dead celebrities earn, showing their legacies still matter.
- They make money through music royalties, deals, and visits to famous places.
- New technology and a love for the past help increase their estates’ value.
- Their ongoing success shows the importance of a personal brand and intellectual property over time.
- Income comes from various projects, including musicals, movies, and brand partnerships.
- Their earnings show the lasting cultural impact these stars have.
- Learning about the finances of celebrity estates could inspire others to protect their legacies.
Michael Jackson $115 Million
Even after his passing, Michael Jackson remains unbeatable as the highest-earning dead celebrity. His legacy reaches beyond time, impacting fans around the globe. With a stunning $115 million in earnings, he tops the Forbes list, showcasing his lasting financial success.
Career and Cause of Death
Michael Jackson’s journey as the King of Pop is a tale of legend. His career featured iconic albums, unforgettable dance moves, and a voice that won the hearts of millions. His influence reshaped music and culture, cementing his status as an icon. The world was shaken by his sudden death in 2009, caused by acute propofol and benzodiazepine intoxication.
But, Michael Jackson’s financial success story didn’t end with his death. His estate keeps earning notable sums, celebrating his lifetime achievements. His art continues to thrive through:
- The Broadway hit “MJ: The Musical”
- The Cirque du Soleil spectacle “Michael Jackson ONE”
- Ongoing music sales and streaming revenues
These sources help maintain Michael Jackson’s estate’s wealth, proving he’s a cultural and financial titan even after death.
| Revenue Source | Contribution to Estate Earnings |
|---|---|
| MJ: The Musical | Broadway Ticket Sales & Merchandise |
| Michael Jackson ONE | Show Tickets & Exclusive Partnerships |
| Music Sales | Albums, Digital Downloads, Streaming |
In today’s music world, legends often fade. Yet, Michael Jackson’s estate continuously grows his legacy. Its ongoing financial success shows his star will always shine bright. He remains an everlasting icon in entertainment and a model for enduring celebrity influence.
Elvis Presley $100 Million
Elvis Presley is a major figure in pop culture. He’s the highest-earning deceased celebrity, with his estate’s value at $100 million. His unforgettable presence keeps attracting fans, even after many years since his death in 1977. Presley’s charm, one-of-a-kind voice, and dynamic performances keep his memory alive in rock ‘n’ roll.
Career Highlights
Elvis Presley’s career broke new ground in music. Known as “The King of Rock ‘n’ Roll,” his records and movies showed his broad talent. His awards and honors show how much impact he made as a cultural icon.
Graceland: A Pillar of Income
Graceland, once Elvis Presley’s home in Memphis, Tennessee, is now a vital part of his legacy. This famous estate serves as a museum and a fan haven, adding a lot to the estate’s income. Graceland isn’t just a house; it’s a tribute to Elvis that his fans treasure.
Enduring Popularity and Estate Revenue
More than forty years after his passing, Elvis Presley still wins over new fans. His estate works hard to keep his memory alive, managing his music, image, and Graceland’s charm. This ensures Elvis remains a beloved figure.
Presley’s Impactful Legacy
- Innovator of rockabilly fusion
- A symbol of mid-century American culture
- An inspiration to artists everywhere
- His brand lives on through products and deals
Elvis’s Cause of Death
Elvis Presley died from heart disease and prescription drug abuse. His death saddened many but made his legacy even stronger. His home became a shrine, and his influence everlasting.
Annual Earnings and Visitor Statistics
| Year | Annual Earnings ($) | Graceland Visitors |
|---|---|---|
| 2020 | 23 million | 500,000+ |
| 2021 | 27 million | 600,000+ |
| 2022 | 30 million | 650,000+ |
The rising numbers show Elvis Presley’s lasting appeal. His spirit still touches many, making him an enduring icon of American pop culture and drawing people to Graceland.
Ray Manzarek $45 Million
The legendary keyboardist for The Doors, Ray Manzarek, left a big mark in music. Even after passing, his work keeps earning money, now totaling $45 million. His unique keyboard skills and impact on rock music are key reasons The Doors are still popular.
Ray Manzarek’s estate, especially the music catalog sale, shows the value of legacy in music today. We’ll look at why this sale is so important.
Career Accomplishments and Influence
Manzarek had a groundbreaking career with The Doors. He blended classical music with rock and roll. This mix gave The Doors a sound unlike any other band.
Music Catalog Sale Details
The Doors’ music catalog was sold to Primary Wave. This sale is part of a trend where classic musicians’ work becomes very valuable. By selling, Ray Manzarek’s estate made a smart move to keep his legend alive.
| Sale Aspect | Details | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Buyer | Primary Wave Music | Expansion of music portfolio |
| Legacy Value | $45 Million | Forbes’ high ranking of deceased celebrity earnings |
| Future Prospects | Licensing and branding opportunities | Increased revenue streams |
| Beneficiaries | Manzarek’s Estate | Secured financial legacy |
The music catalog sale does more than just bring in money. It also shows how Ray Manzarek’s and The Doors’ music still has a big impact. It proves that the work of great artists like the keyboardist for The Doors is valued and can make money long after they’re gone.
Dr. Seuss $40 Million
Dr. Seuss is a big name in kids’ books, known for stories that spark imagination. Even years after his passing, he still captures hearts with his timeless tales. His success comes from being loved worldwide and smart licensing deals.
Theodor Seuss Geisel, or Dr. Seuss, made reading fun for kids with his lively characters and catchy words. He wrote many books and built a lasting business. His work lives on, inspiring kids everywhere.
Continued Popularity and Licensing Deals
Dr. Seuss’s world grows through licensing deals that keep his stories alive. Deals with products and media make his famous characters, like The Cat in the Hat, stay popular. This keeps Dr. Seuss relevant in culture today.
Let’s look at how Dr. Seuss stays profitable:
| Licensee | Type of Deal | Impact on Estate |
|---|---|---|
| Universal Studios | Theme Park Rights | Increase in estate revenue from park attractions and merchandise. |
| Random House | Book Publishing | Sustained sales of classic titles, new editions, and spin-offs. |
| Netflix | Streaming Series | Introduction of Seussian tales to a global streaming audience. |
| Major Apparel Brands | Branded Clothing Lines | Engagement with fashion-forward youth and nostalgic adults. |
| Educational Publishers | Learning Materials | Expansion into the educational space, promoting literacy. |
Dr. Seuss’s works reach people in many ways thanks to his estate’s smart moves. The licensing deals let Seuss’s magic grow beyond books. This way, his charming world adapts to new times while keeping its heart.
Despite changes in how we enjoy stories, Dr. Seuss’s tales of wonder and lessons live on. He remains a beloved author, celebrated for his creative stories and success.
Charles Schulz $30 Million
Charles Schulz brings to mind happy memories, thanks to his Peanuts comic strip. This strip has won hearts for years. Schulz, even after his death, stays famous in comics and cartoons. He’s the fifth highest-paid deceased celebrity, earning $30 million. The Peanuts brand thrives today, with merch sales and partnerships, thanks to Schulz’s successors.
The unwavering popularity of Peanuts spans many years. Schulz’s characters connect with people everywhere. We’ll explore how Schulz’s creative characters keep bringing happiness and profits through different deals and projects. Peanuts remains a favorite in our digital world, showing Schulz’s lasting genius.
Peanuts Franchise and Collaborations
Team-ups have helped keep Charles Schulz’s work fresh and current. The Peanuts brand joined forces with Apple, releasing shows on Apple TV+. This move introduced Charlie Brown, Snoopy, and friends to new fans via streaming. The Peanuts crew also appears on products from famous brands like Williams Sonoma and Cariuma. This mixes nostalgia with fashion, keeping Schulz’s art widely loved. These partnerships honor the Peanuts strip’s history while boosting the estate’s earnings with unique, fun products.
By teaming up with others and staying visible in media and stores, Charles Schulz’s legacy stays strong. Snoopy, the dreamy aviator, and his friends navigate today’s markets. This shows Charles Schulz’s influence remains, far from fading away.
Prince $30 Million
The iconic musician Prince mixed rock, funk, and soul in a unique way. His spirit and sound still inspire many after his 2016 death. This has placed him on Forbes’ list with earnings of $30 million, even after passing away.
Prince’s legacy isn’t just in our memories. His music royalties add to his estate’s wealth. His estate has released new albums, letting us see his genius again.
Impact and Release of Posthumous Albums
New releases of Prince’s music prove he’s still relevant. They bring fans the joy of discovering new Prince tunes. His “Diamonds and Pearls” album was remastered, offering enhanced versions of beloved songs.
These releases also include unseen concert videos. They showcase Prince’s unique stage presence.
Charting the Music Royalties and Estate Success
Prince’s legacy is kept alive by his music royalties. His songs ensure the “Purple Rain” continues to shine, both in profits and in our hearts.
| Album/Release | Year | Noteworthy Details |
|---|---|---|
| Piano & A Microphone 1983 | 2018 | An intimate, raw glimpse into Prince’s creative process |
| Originals | 2019 | Collection of Prince-written songs performed by other artists |
| Sign O’ The Times (Super Deluxe Edition) | 2020 | A massive 92-track set including 45 unreleased studio songs |
| Welcome 2 America | 2021 | Previously shelved studio album offering a powerful social critique |
Every posthumous album shares Prince’s unreleased works, enhancing his estate’s wealth. These treasures deepen his legendary music career without diluting it.
As long as people love Prince’s music, his estate will thrive. Prince’s legacy illuminates the music world with a purple glow, showing his ongoing influence.
Whitney Houston $30 Million
Whitney Houston has left a mark on music that still echoes today. Her estate is worth $30 million. This is because her voice remains powerful through a new biopic and brand deals.
Biopic Spotlight
The upcoming biopic “Whitney Houston: I Wanna Dance With Somebody” is creating a lot of excitement. It celebrates Houston’s life and talent. Plus, it’s boosting interest in her music, helping her estate make money.
Lucrative Brand Collaborations
Her estate also earns from brand partnerships. For instance, the deal with MAC Cosmetics highlights her iconic style. These collaborations keep her legacy alive, allowing fans to feel closer to her.
| Biopic Impact | Brand Collaboration |
|---|---|
| Renewed interest in discography | MAC Cosmetics makeup line |
| Cultural icon celebration | Engagement with fans |
| Estate revenue growth | Enduring brand value |
Whitney Houston’s influence in music is unparalleled. Her life’s story and partnerships remind us of her incredible talent. They not only generate income but also honor her memory in a meaningful way.
John Lennon $22 Million
The legacy of John Lennon keeps him as a top-earning deceased celebrity with $22 million. This comes mostly from Beatles royalties and his memorable solo projects. His music still touches both old and new fans, showing his timeless talent.
As a key figure of The Beatles, Lennon left a big mark on music and culture. His share of the Beatles royalties adds a lot to his estate’s earnings. Besides, how his solo work is handled keeps the John Lennon brand strong in the music world.
Beatles Royalties and Posthumous Release
The Beatles’ catalog royalties are well-guarded and managed. This ensures Lennon’s estate benefits from songs that still make sales worldwide. The launch of “Now and Then,” a posthumous release, highlights Lennon’s ongoing appeal by adding to his estate’s income.
| Revenue Source | Details | Estimated Earnings |
|---|---|---|
| Beatles Royalties | Royalties from the enduring sales of The Beatles catalog | $12 million |
| Solo Work | Album sales, streaming, and licensing of solo material | $6 million |
| Posthumous Releases | Income from new releases of previously unreleased material | $4 million |
Lennon’s fans still honor his work, both with The Beatles and solo. This is clear from the steady royalties and love for each new posthumous release. His estate’s careful management helps keep John Lennon‘s spirit alive in the music scene.
Bob Marley $16 Million
The legendary Bob Marley made a huge mark on music and culture. His estate earns impressive amounts, showcasing his lasting fame and smart brand use. It makes $16 million, thanks to strong music sales and various branded merchandise.
Expanding the Marley Brand
The Marley brand is more than just music. It’s known for quality and realness. Here’s how it stays popular:
- His timeless reggae music still streams and sells globally, spreading messages of love, peace, and resistance.
- His eco-friendly audio products show his commitment to living in tune with nature.
- There’s even a Marley-branded cannabis dispensary, reflecting his support for natural remedies.
These steps keep the famous musician’s legacy alive. His influence is felt whether through music or unique goods. Bob Marley’s spirit lives on, in line with his life and music ideals.
Bing Crosby $14 Million
The wonderful voice of Bing Crosby is still heard during the holidays. It brings a warm feeling of old times, mixed with today’s tech. Crosby’s estate makes $14 million, thanks to his iconic Christmas album and remastered releases. Crosby won hearts in the mid-1900s with his amazing voice. His music outlasted records and moved into the digital era.
Evergreen Appeal of Crosby’s Christmas Melodies
Bing Crosby is a big name in Christmas joy. His voice fills homes around the world. His Christmas album with the song “White Christmas” is loved by everyone. This album is played a lot in December. It shows how timeless songs stay popular. This helps Crosby’s estate make money and keeps him a beloved Christmas figure.
Revitalizing Classics with Remastered Releases
There are new versions of Crosby’s songs. They have been remastered to sound super clear. These updated songs are for those who love great sound. They make Crosby’s music feel fresh. This keeps his music loved by both old fans and new listeners.
Bing Crosby’s songs are a holiday tradition. They feel warm and familiar. At the same time, new technology has made these songs sound even better. Crosby’s holiday songs and the success of new versions keep his memory alive. He remains a cherished name in Christmas music.
George Harrison $14 Million
Earning a remarkable $14 million, George Harrison remains influential. He touched many with his work in The Beatles. He also played a key part in creating the Cirque du Soleil show. This reflects his lasting impact. His estate benefits from song royalties and the Las Vegas performance.
The Beatles Catalog: An Undying Source of Royalties
The Beatles’ songs are the foundation of Harrison’s fortune. His tunes like ‘Here Comes the Sun,’ have a special place. Money keeps coming in from these musical pieces. The Beatles’ music will always hold a unique spot in history.
The Las Vegas Phenomenon: Cirque du Soleil’s “LOVE”
The Cirque du Soleil show ‘LOVE’ in Las Vegas pays homage to The Beatles, thanks to George. Performed at The Mirage, it mixes acrobatics with their music. It draws crowds and adds to Harrison’s earnings.
George Harrison is notable among top-earning late celebrities thanks to his art. His contribution to music and culture is profound. His legacy continues to inspire and entertain globally.
Arnold Palmer $10 Million
Arnold Palmer was one of the greatest golfers ever. He became more than an athlete; he was a cultural icon. His legacy goes beyond golf, thanks to his successful beverage brand.
Beverage Brand and Legacy
Palmer mixed lemonade and iced tea, creating a beloved drink. Forbes reports his estate made $10 million from it. The brand also introduced an alcoholic version, showing its ability to evolve.
The beverage brand celebrates Arnold Palmer’s creativity. The ‘Arnold Palmer’ drink is a tribute to him on and off the golf course. It symbolizes the lasting influence of a much-loved sports figure.
Marilyn Monroe $10 Million
Marilyn Monroe is a shining star of Hollywood’s golden era, and she’s still making big money. Her estate earned $10 million, putting her in thirteenth place on Forbes’ list. Her films and the fascination with her life story continue to attract fans all over the globe. Thanks to smart management, Monroe’s legacy is not only alive but also thriving financially.
Film Legacy and Enduring Popularity
Marilyn Monroe is a symbol of 20th-century cinema. She played unforgettable roles that still draw people’s interest. Her work, from “Gentlemen Prefer Blondes” to “The Misfits,” keeps winning over new fans. This ensures her films generate money and her influence as an actress lives on.
Marilyn Monroe’s story is deeply ingrained in American culture. Products with her image or quotes are highly sought after. Her estate keeps her memory alive, carefully selecting how her image is used. This brings her charm into people’s lives, extending her reach beyond just movies.