In 2024, several deceased stars continue to generate significant income, thanks to their music catalogs and estate revenues. Forbes has released its list of the highest-paid dead celebrities, featuring some surprising names.
Leading the list is Michael Jackson, who, despite passing away in 2009, has amassed over $3.3 billion since his death. In 2024 alone, he earned an impressive $600 million. Following him is Freddie Mercury, who raked in $250 million, boosted by Queen’s record-breaking $1 billion music catalog sale in June.
Among the notable mentions is Matthew Perry, known for his role in Friends. A year after his death in October 2023, his memoir, Friends, Lovers and the Big Terrible Thing, has sold 2.5 million copies, contributing to his annual royalties exceeding $17 million.
Dr. Seuss, although he passed away in 1991, still earned $75 million this year, thanks to enduring classics like The Cat in the Hat and lucrative licensing agreements. Elvis Presley rounds out the top five, earning $50 million, with Graceland attracting 600,000 visitors in the past year.
These figures highlight the lasting impact and profitability of these icons, even after their
passing.
