Forbes has recently released its annual list of the highest-paid dead celebrities, showing that some stars are making more money in the afterlife than they did while alive. Topping the list is Michael Jackson, who has earned $3.3 billion since his death in 2009, with this year’s earnings boosted by the success of MJ: The Michael Jackson Musical. Other notable names on the list include Freddie Mercury, Dr. Seuss, Elvis Presley, and Ric Ocasek.
The list serves as a reminder of how a person’s work can continue to generate revenue long after they are gone. The importance of negotiating rights to creative work is highlighted, such as J.R.R. Tolkien’s estate selling Middle-earth Enterprises for $500 million and the “Friends” cast securing 2% of syndication income. However, with the rise of streaming platforms, actors may not see the same residuals as before, leading to recent Hollywood strikes.
Interestingly, some Halloween trivia is also included in the article, with George Romero’s Night of the Living Dead falling into the public domain due to a copyright error. Overall, Forbes’ list showcases the enduring impact of celebrities and their work, serving as a fascinating insight into the entertainment industry and the ongoing importance of intellectual property rights.
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