Since Michael Jackson died on 25 June 2009 he has not only generated more revenue than any other deceased celebrity, but has actually earned more than ANY celebrity living or dead – except Oprah. Shamon.
After he died Michael’s estate was sold to Sony Music for $250 million making it the biggest recording contract in history and, with a renewed surge of popularity that came after his death, Sony has so far dropped a movie (‘This Is It’) that spurned subsequent CD and DVD versions; there’s a new Michael-themed show by Cirque du Soleil in Las Vegas on the way; PlayStation Move game ‘Michael Jackson: The Experience’; and a string of other post-mortem merchandising efforts some more creepy than others.
Just to give you an idea of how massive Michael has been since he died, over the last year he earned $275 million. That’s $215 million more than rich list runner up Elvis Presley, who earned $60 million.
That’s why he’s the king.
Full list:
1. Michael Jackson – $275 million
2. Elvis Presley – $60 million
3. J.R.R. Tolkien – $50 million
4. Charles Schultz – $33 million
5. John Lennon – $17 million
6. Stieg Larsson – $15 Million
7. Theodor Geise (Dr. Seuss) – $11 million
8. Albert Einstein – $10 million
9. George Steinbrenner – $9 million
10. Richard Rodgers – $7 million
11. Jimi Hendrix – $6 million (tie)
11. Steve McQueen – $6 million (tie)
13. Aaron Spelling – $5 million
