Michael Jackson continues to dominate the entertainment industry even 17 years after his passing, ranking second on Forbes’ 2026 list of the highest-paid deceased celebrities worldwide.
According to Forbes, Michael Jackson generated an estimated $140 million in earnings between October 1, 2025, and September 30, 2026, placing him just behind legendary music producer Quincy Jones, who topped the ranking with $150 million.
The ranking reflects another remarkable year for the Michael Jackson estate, driven by the continued popularity of his music, licensing activities, theatrical productions and the extraordinary success of the biographical film Michael.
The highly anticipated biopic, released in April 2026, became a major box-office phenomenon, reportedly surpassing $1 billion worldwide. Its success introduced Michael Jackson to new generations of audiences while reigniting interest in his music and legacy.
The estate is also expected to benefit from additional financial participation connected to the film in the coming years, further strengthening Michael Jackson’s position among the world’s most commercially successful deceased artists.
Quincy Jones’ first-place position is largely attributed to a significant catalogue and rights transaction involving HarbourView Equity Partners, estimated by Forbes at approximately $150 million. Jones also benefited from his production royalties on Michael Jackson’s early solo albums, which experienced renewed attention following the biopic.
Forbes’ Highest-Paid Dead Celebrities of 2026
The complete Top 10 ranking is as follows:
- Quincy Jones – $150 million
- Michael Jackson – $140 million
- Dr. Seuss – $80 million
- Elvis Presley – $75 million
- Dolly Parton – $46 million
- Bob Marley – $25 million
- Prince – $24 million
- Diane Keaton – $22 million
- John Lennon – $18 million
- George Harrison – $15 million
Michael Jackson’s continued presence near the top of the ranking demonstrates the extraordinary longevity of his catalogue and cultural influence. With music, entertainment, merchandise and licensing continuing to reach audiences around the world, his legacy remains one of the most powerful commercial forces in popular culture.
Even nearly two decades after his passing, Michael Jackson continues to make history.
Source: Forbes
