‘Dead’ Michael Jackson still earns

London : ‘King of Pop’ Michael Jackson has topped among the dead celebrity earners as his albums have gone back to the music charts even after his death, Forbes magazine said.

The King of Pop earned $275m (£173m) the last year, more than any other celebrity, dead or alive, except talk show host Oprah Winfrey.

“Jackson’s spot atop our top earning dead celebrities list should come as no surprise given the renewed interest,” Forbes said.

Elvis Presley came second, making $60m (£38m), followed by JRR Tolkien.

The estate of the Lord of the Rings author generated $50m (£32m), Forbes said. Peanuts illustrator Charles Schulz raked in $33m (£21m), while former Beatles’ John Lennon was fifth on the list, earning $17m (£11m).

Jackson’s estate earned more than the next 12 deceased celebrities combined, Forbes estimated.

Jackson’s album sales and radio airplay accounted for $50m, while sales of a video game, memorabilia and a re-released autobiography were worth another $50m, the magazine estimated.

His estate was paid $60m for ‘This Is It’, a film of the rehearsals for his ill-fated comeback concerts at the O2 arena in London.

His estate has also struck deals to release previously unheard music as well as merchandise, toys and other products.

Jackson’s debts were estimated at $500m (£315m) when he died aged 50 in June 2009.

Top-earning dead celebrities

1. Michael Jackson – $275m

2. Elvis Presley – $60m

3. JRR Tolkien – $50m

4. Charles Schulz – $33m

5. John Lennon – $17m