Even in passing, their brands keep working — here’s a look at which iconic names are still earning big and why their estates remain gold mines.
Hollywood’s Posthumous Millionaires
October 31, 2025: In the world of celebrity earnings, death doesn’t necessarily mark the end of fortune. Some of the world’s most famous names continue to make millions long after their passing. From legendary musicians to beloved cartoonists, these icons still dominate the charts in 2025 through royalties, brand deals, and global licensing agreements.
Top Earners Among the Departed
Here are some of the standout names and approximate earnings for 2025:
Michael Jackson — The King of Pop once again tops the list with an estimated $70 million in posthumous earnings, fueled by catalog sales and music licensing.
Image Credit: Biography
Elvis Presley — The rock-and-roll legend follows closely with around $49 million, thanks to Graceland tourism and merchandise.
Charles M. Schulz — The creator of Peanuts continues to earn big with an estimated $42 million, as Snoopy and the gang remain timeless favorites.
Image Credit: Wilipedia
Arnold Palmer — The golf icon’s beverage line and endorsements bring in roughly $30 million this year.
Bob Marley — With music sales and global branding, the reggae icon’s estate makes about $24 million.
Dr. Seuss — The late author’s whimsical world keeps earning, with book sales and licensing totaling $24 million.
Prince — His catalog and name recognition continue to pay off, earning his estate about $12 million.
John Lennon — The Beatles legend remains a global favorite, bringing in around $14 million in royalties and deals.
Image Credit: Next Avenue
Marilyn Monroe — Her image and brand partnerships generate an impressive $13 million, proving timeless allure never fades.
Why They Still Earn Millions
So, how do these late stars continue to earn more than many of today’s working celebrities?
Catalog and Master-Rights Sales: Estates that manage or sell valuable intellectual property see enormous gains.
Streaming and Royalties: The rise of digital platforms ensures older music and films keep generating revenue.
Licensing and Merchandising: From fashion to fragrance, celebrity brands continue to expand globally.
Media Revivals: Biopics, documentaries, and anniversary projects breathe new life (and money) into classic names.
The Legacy of Influence
The continued success of these departed stars shows the power of strong estate management and enduring fan devotion. Their names transcend time, inspiring new generations while maintaining their commercial appeal.
These earnings highlight a fascinating truth — in pop culture, fame truly has no expiration date. Whether through music, movies, or merchandise, their influence continues to grow, proving that even after death, some stars will always shine the brightest.