EntertainmentMichael Jackson

Michael Jackson Named Top-Earning Dead Celebrity

Michael Jackson Made $160 Million This Year
FILE - In this Nov. 8, 2007 file photo, pop star Michael Jackson poses on the red carpet during the RainbowPUSH Coalition Los Angeles 10th annual awards in Los Angeles. Federal authorities are considering making the potent anesthetic propofol, one of the drugs found in Michael Jackson's home, a controlled substance, which would put new limits on its distribution.(AP Photo/Danny Moloshok, file)
FILE - In this Nov. 8, 2007 file photo, pop star Michael Jackson poses on the red carpet during the RainbowPUSH Coalition Los Angeles 10th annual awards in Los Angeles. Federal authorities are considering making the potent anesthetic propofol, one of the drugs found in Michael Jackson's home, a controlled substance, which would put new limits on its distribution.(AP Photo/Danny Moloshok, file)

Forbes released its list of the top-earning dead celebrities this week, and Michael Jackson took the No. 1 spot.

The late pop star made $160 million in the past year, more than two years after his death. Jackson's total makes him the top-earning celebrity overall, beating out Madonna, who brought in the most money for any living celebrity with $125 million in the past year.

A large part of Jackson's posthumous earnings come from the Cirque du Soleil tribute show, "One," which was created in his honor. Jackson's estate also earns money for his music catalogue, music sales, and Cirque's Michael Jackson Immortal tour.

Jackson is followed on the list by Elvis at $55 million, Charles M. Schulz at $37 million, Elizabeth Taylor at $25 million, and Bob Marley at $18 million.

For the rest of the list, and to see how celebrities such as Marilyn Monroe, Albert Einstein, and John Lennon stack up, head over to Forbes.

Before You Go

5. Dr. Dre

The Highest-Paid Celebrities

|
Submit a tip

Popular in the Community

Close

What's Hot