The Never-Ending Paycheck: How Some Stars Keep Earning Millions After Death
Ever wondered how some celebrities keep making money even after they're gone? It's not magic—it's smart planning and good management.
The Business of Fame
When a famous person passes away, their estate often becomes a money-making machine. This is especially true for musicians, artists, and athletes who leave behind a legacy of work that keeps generating income.
The Case of Michael Jackson
Take Michael Jackson, for example. He's still making more money than many living artists. His estate is managed by his kids, who benefit from a trust. But how does it all work?
When a celebrity dies, their estate is handled by executors or trustees. These people make sure that every song, photo, and even the celebrity's image keeps bringing in cash. They manage royalties, trademarks, and real estate, turning fame into a lasting business.
Michael Jackson's estate is a great example of this. One of his smartest moves was buying the ATV music catalog in 1985. This catalog included nearly 4,000 songs, many by The Beatles. Every time one of those songs was played, covered, or used in a movie or ad, Jackson earned money. In 2016, Sony bought the catalog for $750 million. And in 2024, his estate sold half of his own music rights to Sony for another $600 million. Not everyone agreed with that deal, but it shows how Jackson's business sense continues to pay off.
Other Celebrities Making Millions
It's not just Michael Jackson. Other celebrities like Dr. Seuss, Elvis Presley, and The Notorious B.I.G. are also making millions after their deaths. Their estates are managed in different ways, but the goal is the same: keep the money flowing. From music royalties to merchandise, movies, and even memes, these stars prove that fame can be a lifelong (or even afterlife) income source.
Top Earners in 2024
Here's a list of 13 celebrities who are still making millions this year:
- Michael Jackson - $105 million
- Dr. Seuss - $85 million
- Richard Wright - $81 million
- Syd Barrett - $81 million
- The Notorious B.I.G. - $80 million
- Miles Davis - $21 million
- Elvis Presley - $17 million
- Jimmy Buffett - $14 million
- Bob Marley - $13 million
- John Lennon - $12 million
- Prince - $11 million
- Arnold Palmer - $11 million
- Kobe Bryant - $10 million
Fame doesn't die—it just keeps earning. These legends show that with the right management, their legacies can be more profitable than ever.
