The Highest-Paid Dead Celebrities of 2025: Who Still Earns Millions

For the 25th annual Forbes ranking of the Highest-Paid Dead Celebrities, music legends continue to dominate. The Notorious B.I.G., Miles Davis and Jimmy Buffett join an iconic lineup that includes Prince and Michael Jackson, who once again takes the No. 1 spot.

2025’s Highest-Paid Dead Celebrities: Michael Jackson Leads Again

highlights how these late stars continue to earn millions through music catalogs, licensing deals, and brand partnerships long after their passing.

Since Forbes began tracking posthumous earnings in 2001 with Elvis Presley topping the first list, few have come close to the financial legacy of the King of Pop. Michael Jackson’s estate has earned an astounding $3.5 billion since his death in 2009 and brought in $105 million over the past year alone.

“When it comes to estate earnings, it’s MJ, then an enormous canyon, then everybody else,” says one estate lawyer.

Jackson’s continued financial success stems from shrewd catalog deals and ongoing entertainment ventures. In 2024, his estate sold a 50% stake in his master recordings and publishing rights to Sony for $600 million. His legacy also thrives through MJ: The Musical and Michael Jackson ONE in Las Vegas, which have generated hundreds of millions in ticket sales. A new biopic, Michael, starring his nephew Jaafar Jackson, is set to premiere in 2026.

Musicians dominate this year’s list, with 10 of the top 13 earning a combined $541 million before taxes. Their music catalogs and publishing rights continue to generate huge returns, with recent deals involving estates like those of The Notorious B.I.G., Miles Davis and Pink Floyd cofounders Richard Wright and Syd Barrett.

Even decades after their deaths, these stars’ influence lives on through royalties, licensing and branded ventures. From Dr. Seuss’ timeless children’s books to Jimmy Buffett’s billion-dollar Margaritaville empire, their names remain powerful global brands.

The Top 13 Highest-Paid Dead Celebrities of 2025

1. Michael Jackson – $105 Million

Since his death in 2009, Michael Jackson’s estate has earned a staggering $3.5 billion. The King of Pop continues to lead thanks to massive catalog deals, including a $600 million sale of 50% of his music rights to Sony in 2024. His shows, MJ: The Musical and Michael Jackson ONE in Las Vegas, keep drawing crowds worldwide. Jackson’s upcoming biopic, Michael, starring his nephew Jaafar Jackson, is expected to extend his legacy even further.

2. Dr. Seuss – $85 Million

The beloved author remains a publishing powerhouse, with nearly five million books sold in 2024, surpassing J.K. Rowling. The estate’s partnerships with Netflix and Warner Bros. have helped expand the world of The Cat in the Hat and The Grinch, and a new manuscript, Sing the 50 United States, will be released in 2026.

3. Richard Wright – $81 Million

Pink Floyd’s late keyboardist benefited from the band’s $400 million catalog sale to Sony Music Publishing. Wright’s songwriting credits and legacy continue to generate huge residuals, proving that the band’s influence still resonates with new generations.

4. Syd Barrett – $81 Million

The original frontman and creative spark behind Pink Floyd also earned big from the band’s catalog deal. Barrett, who named the group in 1965, continues to inspire psychedelic rock fans and musicians decades after his passing.

5. The Notorious B.I.G. – $80 Million

Christopher Wallace, better known as The Notorious B.I.G., remains one of hip-hop’s most celebrated figures. His estate recently sold 50% of his catalog and publishing rights to Primary Wave Music, securing major profits. Merchandise, posthumous albums and documentaries continue to fuel his enduring popularity.

6. Miles Davis – $21 Million

The jazz icon’s estate sold a 90% stake to Reservoir Media ahead of his 100th birthday celebrations. With new live tributes and a biopic starring Damson Idris on the way, Davis’ influence on music and culture continues to grow.

7. Elvis Presley – $17 Million

Nearly half a century after his death, Elvis Presley’s legacy endures through his Memphis estate, Graceland, and the continued sale of music and memorabilia. Despite a recent scam attempt to auction Graceland, the Presley family, led by granddaughter Riley Keough, retains control of the estate and The King’s brand.

8. Jimmy Buffett – $14 Million

The “Margaritaville” singer’s empire spans restaurants, resorts, apparel and even retirement communities. Following his death in 2023, Buffett’s business remains one of the most profitable celebrity brands. Ongoing legal disputes over his estate haven’t slowed the brand’s massive reach and fan devotion.

9. Bob Marley – $13 Million

Bob Marley’s name remains synonymous with peace, music and lifestyle. His estate launched Bob Marley Hope Road in Las Vegas, a live production celebrating his legacy. Licensing deals for coffee, audio products and cannabis continue to generate strong income worldwide.

10. John Lennon – $12 Million

A new HBO documentary focusing on Lennon’s 1972 Madison Square Garden concert is expected to reignite interest in his solo work. His estate, still managed by Yoko Ono, earns millions annually from music rights and global licensing deals tied to The Beatles’ enduring legacy.

11. Prince – $11 Million

Nearly a decade after his passing, Prince’s estate remains in legal turmoil over control of his $156 million fortune. A long-awaited Netflix documentary remains unreleased, but streaming royalties, music rights and licensing continue to generate millions each year.

12. Arnold Palmer – $11 Million

The legendary golfer continues to earn from his signature iced tea and lemonade collaboration with AriZona Beverages, a staple in U.S. convenience stores. His family also runs two major golf clubs, preserving his legacy as one of the sport’s greatest ambassadors.

13. Kobe Bryant – $10 Million

The basketball icon’s Nike sneaker line remains a massive success, with sales nearly quadrupling in the past year. A long-term deal with Nike ensures that Bryant’s legacy lives on through new “Mamba” footwear and apparel launches throughout 2025.

The Legacy Lives On

Even after death, these stars continue to shape culture, commerce and creativity. From Michael Jackson’s billion-dollar empire to Bob Marley’s lifestyle influence and Kobe Bryant’s growing sneaker brand, their work and impact remain timeless. The message is clear — legends never really leave the stage.