It has been 15 years since Michael Jackson – the “King of Pop” – left this world, yet his influence and financial power have not diminished. In 2024, the empire bearing his name continues to out-earn every living celebrity, from current music icons like Taylor Swift to Hollywood superstars like Dwayne Johnson and Tom Cruise.

This past year, Jackson’s estate earned $600 million, largely thanks to the sale of half of his music catalog to Sony, valued between $1.2 and $1.5 billion. This figure represents only a portion of the massive revenue that Michael Jackson continues to generate even after his passing. Income from streaming, music licensing, image rights, and the upcoming biopic MJ further reinforce his enduring legacy as a cultural and financial powerhouse.

The contrast with living stars is striking. Taylor Swift grossed $400 million from her record-breaking Eras Tour. Dwayne Johnson earned $88 million, and Tom Cruise made $25 million. Even other legendary estates like Freddie Mercury’s ($250 million) and Elvis Presley’s ($50 million) could not match Jackson’s numbers.

Since his death in 2009, Michael Jackson’s estate has accumulated an estimated $3.2 billion, demonstrating that his music, image, and brand still hold incredible value. He is not only an artist but also a global brand icon, with popularity that transcends time.

Michael Jackson has proven that a true legend never dies. Fifteen years after his passing, he remains an irreplaceable icon, dominating the music and entertainment industry with unmatched earning power. His legacy is not only in his music but also in his business acumen, brand management, and global influence, confirming that Michael Jackson continues to rule the world even after leaving the spotlight.