20 Dead Celebrities Still Making Millions Every Year—See Who Tops the List

20 Dead Celebrities Still Making Millions Every Year—See Who Tops the List

Fame doesn’t end with death—for some celebrities, it actually becomes more profitable. These stars continue to generate incredible wealth years or even decades after they’ve left us. Their estates, managed by savvy executors and family members, turn their legacies into ongoing revenue streams through music royalties, image rights, and branded merchandise. The amounts these deceased celebrities earn annually might surprise you—some make more now than they did during their lifetimes!

20. Muhammad Ali

Muhammad Ali continues generating substantial income through careful management of his iconic image and inspirational life story. The legendary boxer’s distinctive silhouette, memorable quotes, and championship moments appear on merchandise worldwide, from sporting goods to motivational posters.

Documentary films and biopics keep interest in his remarkable journey from controversial figure to beloved global humanitarian high among new generations.

The Muhammad Ali Center in Louisville, Kentucky, serves as both memorial and educational institution while generating tourism revenue. Ali’s principled stands on civil rights and against the Vietnam War have made him a timeless symbol of courage that transcends sports.

19. David Bowie

Renowned for his ever-evolving artistry, David Bowie’s estate generates millions annually from his innovative music catalog spanning multiple genres and personas.

The Thin White Duke’s experimental approach to music, fashion, and identity created a body of work that remains influential across creative industries. Bowie’s foresight led him to securitize his catalog through “Bowie Bonds” in the 1990s, demonstrating his business acumen alongside his artistic vision.

Posthumous releases, including previously unheard recordings and special editions, continue satisfying his dedicated fanbase. His distinctive visual aesthetic—from Ziggy Stardust to the Thin White Duke—remains influential in fashion, graphic design, and music video production.

18. Steve McQueen

Steve McQueen’s estate earns millions annually from his enduring “King of Cool” image that continues influencing fashion, automotive, and luxury brands. His association with iconic vehicles like the Ford Mustang from Bullitt and the Triumph motorcycle from The Great Escape is legendary.

This enduring connection makes him a natural partner for automotive marketing. Fashion brands frequently reference his effortless style, featuring McQueen-inspired collections of sunglasses, jackets, and casual wear.

His films, including classics like “The Magnificent Seven” and “The Thomas Crown Affair,” continue finding new audiences through streaming platforms. Authentic McQueen memorabilia, particularly vehicles he owned, command premium prices at auction.

17. Bruce Lee

Bruce Lee continues generating substantial income decades after his untimely death at age 32. His revolutionary martial arts films, including “Enter the Dragon” and “Fist of Fury,” remain influential and continue selling through new releases and streaming platforms.

Lee’s distinctive image, philosophy, and fighting style appear on merchandise worldwide, from clothing to action figures. His training methods and philosophical approach to martial arts continue influencing fighters and fitness enthusiasts through books and instructional materials.

The Bruce Lee Foundation, managed by his daughter Shannon, carefully protects and promotes his legacy while developing new projects that introduce him to younger generations.

16. Elizabeth Taylor

Celebrated for her beauty and business savvy, Elizabeth Taylor’s estate continues collecting millions annually, primarily through her groundbreaking fragrance empire. White Diamonds perfume alone has generated over $1.5 billion in sales since its 1991 launch, remaining a bestseller long after her death.

Taylor’s extensive jewelry collection periodically appears at high-profile auctions, setting records with pieces like the Elizabeth Taylor Diamond selling for $8.8 million.

Her classic films, including “Cleopatra” and “Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?,” continue generating royalties through streaming and special edition releases. The Elizabeth Taylor AIDS Foundation carries on her humanitarian legacy while maintaining public interest in her remarkable life story.

15. Nipsey Hussle

Known for blending music with entrepreneurship, Nipsey Hussle continues earning through his music catalog, Marathon Clothing brand, and various business ventures he established before his tragic 2019 death.

His Grammy-winning album “Victory Lap” remains a streaming favorite, introducing new fans to his authentic storytelling and entrepreneurial mindset. The Marathon Clothing store in Los Angeles has become both a memorial and thriving business, with fans purchasing merchandise to honor his memory.

Hussle’s community investment philosophy and economic empowerment message continue inspiring others. Documentaries about his life and impact ensure his legacy extends beyond music into business and community development.

14. Marilyn Monroe

An everlasting symbol of glamour and allure, Marilyn Monroe continues generating millions annually through her iconic image and enduring sex symbol status. Her distinctive platinum blonde hair and red lips remain instantly recognizable worldwide.

Famous poses continue to appear on everything from artwork to fashion items. Authentic Monroe memorabilia commands premium prices at auction, with items like her famous “Happy Birthday Mr. President” dress selling for millions.

Her films, including classics like “Some Like It Hot” and “Gentlemen Prefer Blondes,” continue finding new audiences through streaming platforms. Monroe’s complex life story continues fascinating the public, inspiring books, films, and the recent controversial Netflix biopic “Blonde.”

13. Whitney Houston

Whitney Houston’s estate collects approximately $13 million annually from her powerful musical legacy. Her unmatched vocal performances on songs like “I Will Always Love You” and “Greatest Love of All” continue generating substantial streaming and sales revenue.

The 2018 documentary “Whitney” and other projects have kept interest in her remarkable talent alive while introducing her to new generations. Houston’s influence on modern vocalists remains profound, with countless artists citing her as their primary inspiration.

Her estate has carefully managed posthumous releases and authorized select projects that maintain the dignity of her artistic legacy while generating ongoing revenue.

12. Arnold Palmer

Arnold Palmer still generates around $14 million annually, demonstrating the golfing legend’s enduring brand power. His namesake beverage—half iced tea, half lemonade—remains a massive commercial success sold in stores nationwide.

It continues to thrive through a licensing deal with Arizona Beverages. Palmer’s distinctive umbrella logo appears on clothing lines, golf equipment, and tournaments bearing his name.

His pioneering approach to sports marketing created a blueprint that athletes still follow today. The Arnold Palmer Invitational PGA Tour event continues honoring his legacy while generating revenue for his estate and charitable foundation.

11. James Brown

James Brown continues earning approximately $15 million annually through his influential music catalog. The Godfather of Soul’s distinctive funk grooves remain among the most sampled sounds in hip-hop and electronic music, generating substantial royalties whenever artists borrow his iconic beats.

His extensive catalog includes classics like “I Got You (I Feel Good)” and “Papa’s Got a Brand New Bag” that regularly appear in films, commercials, and sporting events.

Brown’s high-energy performance style and distinctive voice created a musical legacy that transcends generations. Documentary films and biopics have kept interest in his remarkable life story high among new audiences.

10. John Lennon

Decades after his tragic death, John Lennon’s estate collects approximately $17 million yearly, over four decades after his tragic death. The Beatles catalog remains one of music’s most valuable assets, with songs like “Hey Jude” and “Let It Be” generating substantial royalties through streaming, radio play, and cover versions.

Lennon’s solo work, including the peace anthem “Imagine,” continues resonating with new generations. His iconic round glasses, distinctive artwork, and famous quotes appear on merchandise worldwide.

Yoko Ono has carefully managed his legacy, authorizing select projects that maintain the artistic and political values Lennon championed during his lifetime.

9. Matthew Perry

Matthew Perry, who passed away in 2023, generates approximately $18 million annually, primarily through Friends syndication and streaming deals. The sitcom’s continued popularity on platforms like HBO Max ensures steady income for cast members’ estates.

The show keeps finding new generations of viewers regularly.Perry’s autobiography, “Friends, Lovers, and the Big Terrible Thing,” became a bestseller and continues selling well posthumously.

His production company had several projects in development at the time of his death that may still generate future revenue. Merchandise featuring Chandler Bing’s sarcastic quips and memorable moments remains popular with Friends fans worldwide.

8. Charles Schulz

Creator of the beloved Peanuts comic strip, Charles Schulz, still earns approximately $30 million annually. Charlie Brown, Snoopy, and the gang appear on everything from greeting cards to insurance commercials, generating substantial licensing revenue for his estate.

Holiday specials like “A Charlie Brown Christmas” remain annual viewing traditions for millions of families. The simple, heartfelt stories of the Peanuts gang continue resonating with audiences of all ages across generations.

Schulz drew nearly 18,000 comic strips during his lifetime, creating a massive catalog of material that can be repurposed for new merchandise, media adaptations, and theme park attractions at places like Knott’s Berry Farm.

7. Bob Marley

Bob Marley’s estate collects around $34 million annually, powered by the universal appeal of reggae classics like “No Woman, No Cry” and “One Love.” His image has become synonymous with peace, rebellion, and Jamaican culture.

It appears on everything from t-shirts to coffee mugs worldwide. The Marley family has successfully launched several businesses bearing his name, including Marley Coffee, Marley Beverages, and House of Marley audio equipment.

His music continues finding new audiences, with streaming numbers that would impress even contemporary artists. Documentary films and biopics keep interest in his life story high, ensuring the reggae pioneer’s legacy—and earning power—remains strong.

6. Prince

Prince continues earning approximately $35 million yearly since his unexpected death in 2016. His legendary vault of unreleased music has allowed his estate to release several posthumous albums.

These projects delight fans with previously unheard material from the musical genius. The Minneapolis icon’s extensive back catalog, including masterpieces like “Purple Rain” and “Sign o’ the Times,” continues generating substantial streaming and sales revenue.

Prince was notoriously protective of his music during his lifetime, making his catalog’s availability on streaming platforms a significant posthumous development. His unique fashion sense and symbol logo remain valuable for merchandising and licensing opportunities.

5. Ric Ocasek

Even after his 2019 passing, Ric Ocasek earns approximately $45 million annually. As frontman and principal songwriter for The Cars, his catalog generates substantial royalties.

Hits like Just What I Needed or Drive continue to play on radio, in films, and on streaming platforms. Ocasek was also a respected producer for bands like Weezer and No Doubt, earning him ongoing royalties from those successful albums.

His estate benefits from careful management and the timeless appeal of The Cars’ new wave sound. The band’s induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2018 renewed interest in their music, boosting streams and downloads significantly.

4. Elvis Presley

Elvis Presley still generates around $50 million yearly, more than four decades after his death. Graceland, his Memphis mansion, welcomes over 600,000 visitors annually who pay to tour the King’s former home and view his extensive collection of gold records, jumpsuits, and memorabilia.

His music catalog continues performing strongly on streaming platforms, with classics like “Can’t Help Falling in Love” and “Suspicious Minds” finding new audiences.

The Elvis brand extends to everything from Christmas ornaments to kitchen appliances. Recent interest in his story, sparked by Baz Luhrmann’s 2022 biopic, has only increased the value of all things Elvis.

3. Dr. Seuss

Dr. Seuss (Theodor Geisel) continues generating approximately $75 million annually from beyond the grave. His colorful characters and rhythmic stories remain staples in children’s literature, with over 650 million copies of his books sold worldwide in more than 95 countries.

The Grinch, The Cat in the Hat, and Horton continue delighting new generations through animated adaptations, merchandise, and theme park attractions. Universal Studios’ Seuss Landing attracts millions of visitors annually.

His estate carefully guards his legacy while expanding into digital platforms, ensuring those whimsical illustrations and moral lessons remain relevant in today’s world.

2. Freddie Mercury

More than three decades after his passing, Freddie Mercury’s estate collects approximately $250 million yearly, proving Queen’s music remains a champion. The 2018 biopic “Bohemian Rhapsody” created a massive resurgence in popularity, introducing a new generation to Mercury’s extraordinary vocal range and theatrical performances.

Streaming services have been particularly kind to Queen’s catalog, with songs like “Another One Bites the Dust” and “We Will Rock You” appearing in countless movies, commercials, and sporting events.

Mercury’s flamboyant stage presence and songwriting genius created an enduring legacy. His estate carefully manages his image rights and continues to release special editions and previously unheard recordings.

1. Michael Jackson

Michael Jackson leads the pack with a staggering $600 million annually. His estate benefits from an extensive music catalog that continues to stream worldwide, with hits like “Thriller” and “Billie Jean” remaining cultural touchstones.

Jackson’s posthumous earnings skyrocketed after smart business moves by his estate managers, who negotiated lucrative deals for his master recordings. The Cirque du Soleil show based on his music adds millions to his annual income.

Despite controversies surrounding his personal life, Jackson’s musical influence remains undeniable, keeping his financial legacy as impressive as his artistic one.