The King of Pop continues to reign financially even sixteen years after his death. Michael Jackson has once again topped the annual list of the world’s highest-earning deceased celebrities in 2025, with his estate generating an estimated $105 million over the past year.
Unmatched Posthumous Earnings
The ranking measures pre-tax income from music sales, streaming platforms, publishing royalties, and licensing deals within a twelve-month period ending in September 2025. Jackson’s consistent dominance highlights the enduring global demand for his music and brand.
A Billion-Dollar Legacy
Since his passing in June 2009, the pop legend’s estate has accumulated over $3.5 billion, setting him far ahead of other late entertainers. His influence extends across multiple generations, proving that his artistic and commercial power remains unmatched even decades after his death.
The Sony Deal and Continued Success
A major contributor to this year’s success was the sale of a 50% stake in his master recordings and music publishing rights to Sony in 2024, a deal valued at approximately $600 million. The arrangement also secured increased royalties for the estate on the remaining catalog, solidifying Jackson’s position as the most profitable artist in music history.
Live Productions and Global Appeal
Beyond record sales and streaming, theatrical and live entertainment ventures continue to drive strong revenue. The Broadway production MJ: The Musical has expanded to several international stages, while Michael Jackson ONE, the Cirque du Soleil show based in Las Vegas, recently celebrated its 5,000th performance and has been extended through 2030.
Upcoming Biopic and Renewed Interest
Adding to the momentum, a highly anticipated biographical film titled Michael, starring his nephew Jaafar Jackson, is slated for release in April 2026. Industry analysts predict the movie could further boost global interest in his catalog and merchandise sales.
Musicians Dominate the 2025 Rankings
The 2025 rankings reveal that musicians dominate the list of highest-earning deceased celebrities, with ten of the top thirteen positions occupied by musical icons. Collectively, these artists’ estates generated over $540 million in earnings this year, largely driven by continued demand for music rights, merchandising, and licensing deals.
Other Icons Among the Top Earners
Other notable names include The Notorious B.I.G., Prince, Bob Marley, and Elvis Presley — all of whom maintain lucrative posthumous income streams through their estates.
A Legacy That Transcends Time
Michael Jackson’s enduring success underscores the power of legacy branding and the timeless nature of great music. Despite his physical absence, his artistry, innovation, and cultural impact continue to captivate audiences and generate immense wealth. Sixteen years on, the King of Pop remains a dominant force in both music and business — proving that true legends never fade.
