Even in death, fame continues to generate wealth.
Some of the world’s most iconic figures—from music legends to literary icons—keep earning millions each year.
As pop culture critic Chuck Klosterman once noted, “Dying is the only thing that guarantees a rock star will have a legacy that stretches beyond temporary relevance.”
In 2024, stars like Michael Jackson, Freddie Mercury, and Whitney Houston lead the ranks of the highest-paid dead celebrities, with their estates generating impressive incomes from lucrative brand deals and catalog sales.
Michael Jackson’s estate topped the list this year, earning $600 million, thanks largely to a major catalog rights sale to Sony.
Similarly, Freddie Mercury’s estate saw a massive $1 billion boost from the sale of Queen’s music catalog, underscoring the ongoing profitability of legacy artists.
Estate deals and catalog sales are now key income streams for deceased stars, allowing their brands to remain profitable and relevant.
According to Forbes’ report released on Thursday, “This year’s Dead Celebrity ranking includes pretax earnings from sales, streams, licensing deals, and other revenue between October 1, 2023, and September 30, 2024, as well as estate acquisitions, announced or completed within that period.”
Forbes compiled this data using Luminate’s analytics and insights from industry experts.
Here’s a look at the highest-earning dead celebrities of 2024, whose influence endures and whose incomes continue to soar.
Michael Jackson – $600m
The King of Pop’s estate profits globally from his Broadway musical and touring shows, with new productions planned in Hamburg in 2025.
Freddie Mercury – $250m
Returning to the list, Queen’s frontman saw a windfall from the record-breaking sale of the band’s catalog, sustaining the legacy of hits like “Bohemian Rhapsody.”
The classic stories of Theodor Seuss Geisel, including The Cat in the Hat and The Grinch, remain beloved, supported by themed merchandise and collectors’ items.
Graceland continues as a major tourist draw, with revenue from music streaming and licensing. The estate faced an attempted fraud incident earlier this year.
The Cars’ lead singer’s publishing rights and image saw growth after a deal with Primary Wave, extending the band’s popularity.
Prince’s catalog and Paisley Park estate keep his legacy alive, though a legal dispute might delay a planned Netflix documentary.
Marley’s brand remains strong, boosted by a recent biopic and a cannabis partnership that aligns with his legacy.
Charles M. Schulz – $30m
Peanuts creator Schulz has seen a rise in popularity, particularly on social media, with Snoopy appealing to new audiences.
The Friends actor’s royalties and memoir have sustained his legacy, with many fans remembering his transparency about addiction.
Lennon’s estate benefits from The Beatles’ enduring appeal and an AI-restored track, “Now And Then,” completing a 1978 demo.
Plans to turn Brown’s mansion into a tourist site promise new revenue, alongside income from his music catalog.
The golfer’s signature drink, produced by AriZona Beverages, remains widely popular, generating a steady income from both non-alcoholic and spiked varieties.
Houston’s image shines in Las Vegas, with themed slot machines offering fans a unique engagement with her legacy.
For fans, these stars remain cultural icons, with their legacies strengthening over time.
As estates release new content and strike fresh deals, these celebrities prove that lasting influence can yield substantial returns.