August 27, 2018 I wrote a blog titled “TOP DECEASED CELEBRITY MONEY MAKERS OF 2017” ranking the highest paid deceased celebrity. That blog was inspired by watching a commercial of Elizabeth Taylor promoting her perfume White Diamonds although at the time Ms. Taylor has expired two years prior. I remember thinking how beautiful she looked with all the touch ups that go on with new technologies. I thought wow she doesn’t look bad for a dead women. Yes I know that’s a cruel thing to think but trust me that’s not the intent. Then I thought who the highest paid deceased celebrity is? In researching I wasn’t surprised when it was reviled Michael Jackson ranked number one his estate bringing in a whopping $75 million. Is MJ still the top money maker?
Fast forward to December 31, 2021 with the death of Bette White the conversation came up again. Who is the highest paid deceased celebrity. Hello Ladies and Gentlemen I’m Sunny Larue known as the professional martini drinking blogger today’s blog post is inspired by celebrities income in the afterlife. Today we will revisit this list to see who the highest deceased celebrity of 2021 according Forbes.
Roald Dahl
September 13, 1916 – November 23, 1990 (age 74)
Children Book Author
$513 Million
Best known for writing Charlie and the Chocolate Factory
Other published works: Matilda, Fantastic Mr. Fox,
James and the Giant Peach
Cause of Death: Rare form of blood cancer.
Prince
June 7, 1958 – April 26, 2016 (age 57)
Recording Artist
$120 Million
Best known for Purple Rain movie soundtrack
Cause of Death: Overdose
Michael Jackson
August 29, 1958 – June 25, 2009 (age 50)
Recording Artist / King of Pop
$75 Million
Best known for Thriller Album (best selling LP of all time)
Cause of Death: Overdose/Homicide
Charles Schulz
November 26, 1922 – February 12, 2000 (age 77)
Cartoonist
$40 Million
Best known for creating A Boy Named Charlie Brown
Cause of Death: Cancer
Dr. Seuss
March 2, 1904 – September 24, 1991 (age 87)
Children Book Author
$35 Million
Best known for creating Cat In The Hat, Green Eggs and Ham,
How the Grinch Stole Christmas
Cause of Death: Cancer
Rounding out the top ten is….
Bing Crosby Actor/Performer $33 Million
Elvis Presley Recording Artist $30 Million
Gerry Goffin Song Writer $23 Million
Luther Vandross Recording Artist $21 Million
These are the top money making deceased celebrities of 2021.
Word Count: 402