Forbes puts Michael Jackson, Elvis and Marilyn Monroe inside top 5 richest deceased stars
For a second consecutive year, Michael Jackson sits atop Forbes magazine’s list of top-earning, deceased celebrities. Jackson, who passed away at the age of 50 in 2009, grossed a projected $170 million over the past year, making him No. 1 on Forbes’ list of dead celebrities and No. 2 on the magazine’s general list of all celebrities, right behind hit-makers U2, the latter who had a massive years with their record-breaking 360 Tour.
Between October 2010 and October 2011, the King of Pop raked in $170 million, thanks to his profitable Sony / ATV collection, including music sales and licensing. That’s behind the $275 million he made the previous year, but still remarkable, no doubt. Forbes magazine went on to speculate that Jackson will hug the top of the list next year, as well, due to the recent takeoff of the Cirque Du Soleil production, “Michael Jackson: The Immortal World Tour.” If successful, it could earn the pop star more touring income that he earned while alive.
No. 2 on Forbes’ list of dead celebrities is Elvis, who took in $55 million. Bombshell actress Marilyn Monroe came in at No. 3 with $27 million, trailed by “Peanuts” illustrator Charles Schulz. Late Beatle John Lennon came in at No. 5 with $12 million in sales, and his bandmate, George Harrison, earned $6 million, putting him at No. 13. Find the entire list of top earners via Forbes magazine’s official website.
Meet the expert - Cat Badra is trending news writer for Audio Ink Radio and a range of other music, sports and lifestyle publications. She's a graduate of Michigan State University with a master's degree in theater and speech. Contact her at cat@audioinkradio.com.
Meet the expert - Cat Badra is trending news writer for Audio Ink Radio and a range of other music, sports and lifestyle publications. She's a graduate of Michigan State University with a master's degree in theater and speech. Contact her at cat@audioinkradio.com.
