In the ethereal realm of the departed some familiar faces are making waves. According to Forbes, these celebrities continue to make money even from the grave.
At their annual ranking of the highest-paid dead celebrities, the enduring legacy of iconic figures like Michael Jackson, Elvis Presley, and others is showcased.
Despite a notable dip in earnings compared to the previous year, these posthumous performers continue to captivate audiences and accumulate substantial wealth in the afterlife.
Michael Jackson: The King of Pop Reclaims His Throne
Earnings: $115 Million
Michael Jackson, who passed away in 2009, surged back to the top spot on the list for the first time in four years. His Broadway hit, MJ: The Musical, grossed an impressive $85 million in ticket sales over the past year.
Also, the Cirque du Soleil show, Michael Jackson ONE, in Las Vegas contributed significantly to his earnings. The anticipation builds as a biopic starring Jackson’s nephew Jaafar is in the works, ensuring his legacy will continue to thrive.
Elvis Presley: The Enduring Legacy of the King
Earnings: $100 Million
Elvis Presley, Michael Jackson’s father in law left the building almost five decades ago but continues to reign.
Graceland, his home in Memphis, welcomed 600,000 visitors in the last year, adding to his substantial earnings. Despite legal battles after the passing of his daughter Lisa Marie Presley, Presley’s legacy remains intact.
Ray Manzarek: Doors’ Keyboardist Strikes a Chord in the Afterlife
Earnings: $45 Million
In a major music catalog deal, the late Doors keyboard player Ray Manzarek, along with guitarist Robby Krieger, sold their rights to the band’s music to Primary Wave.
This acquisition included recorded music, publishing, trademarks, and merchandising, boosting their earnings posthumously.
Dr. Seuss: Timeless Tales Continue to Enchant Readers
Earnings: $40 Million
Theodor Seuss Geisel, better known as Dr. Seuss, remains a beloved figure among young readers.
His classic books, along with new releases like “How the Grinch Lost Christmas,” contribute significantly to his earnings. Licensing his iconic characters, such as the Grinch and the Cat in the Hat, adds to his lucrative legacy.
Charles M. Schulz: Peanuts Gang Keeps Spreading Joy
Earnings: $30 Million
The Peanuts gang, created by Charles M. Schulz, remains as popular as ever. Collaborations with Apple, digital faces for watches, branded cookware, and sneakers ensure that Snoopy and friends continue to bring joy to fans worldwide.
Prince: The Purple One’s Musical Journey Continues
Earnings: $30 Million
Prince, who once described the afterlife as a “world of never-ending happiness,” posthumously released music. This year alone, the pop icon released three albums and a remastered version of his classic album “Diamonds and Pearls.” His estate, along with Primary Wave, ensures his music continues to resonate with fans.
Whitney Houston: A Timeless Voice Echoes Through Generations
Earnings: $30 Million
Whitney Houston’s legacy thrives with a biopic and brand collaborations. The film “Whitney Houston: I Wanna Dance With Somebody” garnered significant global revenue. A makeup collection in collaboration with MAC Cosmetics adds to her posthumous earnings.
John Lennon: Beatles Icon Continues to Earn Steady Royalties
Earnings: $22 Million
John Lennon’s estate continues to earn royalties from his individual music catalog and his share from Beatles music.
The release of the group’s final song, “Now and Then,” based on Lennon’s demo from the 1970s, keeps his legacy alive.
Bob Marley: Reggae Legend’s Music Remains Timeless
Earnings: $16 Million
More than four decades after his death, Bob Marley’s music remains in high demand.
His name and likeness are featured on various products, including headphones, speakers, sneakers, and even cannabis. A Marley-branded dispensary in Jamaica further adds to his posthumous earnings.
Bing Crosby: The King of Christmas Continues to Spread Cheer
Earnings: $14 Million
Bing Crosby’s estate enjoys royalties from his music catalog and songs. A posthumous album, “Bing Crosby’s Christmas Gems,” featuring rare recordings, delights fans during the holiday season, showcasing his enduring influence.
George Harrison: Beatles Legacy Lives On
Earnings: $14 Million
George Harrison’s steady income comes from his years with the Beatles and his solo career.
The psychedelic Cirque du Soleil show based on the Beatles catalog, LOVE, contributes to his posthumous earnings.
Arnold Palmer: Golf Legend’s Legacy Beyond the Greens
Earnings: $10 Million
Arnold Palmer, renowned for his golfing prowess, earns royalties from his signature half-lemonade, half-iced tea beverage enterprise.
His beverage brand of the same name also launched a spiked line of drinks, capitalizing on the growing hard tea market.
Marilyn Monroe: Timeless Icon Sets Fashion Trends
Earnings: $10 Million
Marilyn Monroe’s iconic image continues to influence fashion and design trends. Licensing and merchandising deals, including an NFT collection and collaborations with beauty and fashion brands, contribute to her posthumous earnings.
