Michael Jackson, The King of Pop, was just 50 years old when he passed away in 2009. He was undeniably one of the biggest musical and cultural icons in our history. Unfortunately, his demise was full of scandal, mystery, and conspiracy. Over a decade after his passing, his financial empire continues to make headlines, from legal disputes to its ever-growing value. Understanding the complexities of Jackson’s estate offers valuable lessons for anyone looking to protect their own legacy. Let's take a look into the estate of Michael Jackson.
Michael Jackson Estate: An Overview
How old would Michael Jackson be today?
Jackson was born on August 29, 1958 and would be 65 years old if her were alive in 2025. He was survived by three children, Paris, Prince, and Bigi.
How much is the Michael Jackson estate worth today?
At the time of his death, Michael Jackson was reportedly in financial distress, but his estate has since rebounded spectacularly. The net worth of Michael Jackson's estate has fluctuated over the years, with some estimates valuing it at a massive $2 billion.
This is due in part to lucrative posthumous business deals, including the sale of a portion of his music catalog and ongoing revenue from royalties. The Michael Jackson estate value continues to grow due to revenue from licensing deals, the Cirque du Soleil show "Michael Jackson ONE," and rights to his music catalog.
In 2021, it was reported that the estate sold part of Jackson’s music assets for $750 million, further solidifying its financial strength. In 2024, the Jackson estate sold a $600 million catalog deal with Sony.
Who controls the estate of Michael Jackson?
Since his passing, there have been ongoing questions about who actually owns Michael Jackson's estate. According to his will, control of his estate was left to a trust overseen by executors John Branca and John McClain. This structure has allowed the estate to continue generating revenue for Jackson’s beneficiaries. The primary beneficiaries include his children (Prince, Paris, and Bigi), and his mother, Katherine Jackson. You can also learn about the $2 million Jackson left to his pet chimpanzee, Bubbles, through a dedicated pet trust here.
Legal Disputes Surrounding the Michael Jackson Estate
One of the more recent disputes involves Bigi Jackson suing his grandmother, Katherine Jackson, over the usage of estate funds. Reports suggest that Bigi opposed her attempt to use estate money for legal battles regarding a major business transaction. In turn, Katherine Jackson also recently lost a legal dispute in which she objected to the estate's $600 million deal with Sony. In 2024, the beneficiaries of the Jackson family trust could not receive distributions until a dispute with the IRS was resolved.
Estate Planning Lessons from Michael Jackson’s Estate
What we can learn from the Michael Jackson estate is that your legacy can be determined by a wide variety of factors, and can even be talked about for decades after your passing. While your name may not necessarily be splashed across tabloid headlines, you likely are someone who wants to maintain peace amongst loved ones and protect both your and their privacy. Here are some tips and lessons based on what we've learned about the Jackson estate controversy:
Have a Clear and Updated Estate Plan: Jackson had a will and trust in place, which helped ensure his assets were distributed according to his wishes. Without a proper plan, his estate could have been tangled in years of probate and disputes.
Choose Your Executors Carefully: The executors of Jackson’s estate have managed to turn it into a billion-dollar empire. Selecting competent, financially savvy individuals to oversee your estate can make a significant difference.
Avoid Family Disputes Through Clear Legal Documentation: Despite Jackson’s planning, disputes among family members have still arisen. Clear, legally binding documentation can help minimize conflicts among heirs. In Jackson's case, it may have been helpful to have provided additional instructions regarding the usage of estate funds and sale of his expansive music catalog.
Consider Ongoing Revenue Streams: Jackson’s estate continues to generate wealth through licensing and royalties. Proper estate planning can ensure your intellectual property and other assets continue to benefit your loved ones long after you’re gone.
Final Thoughts
The estate of Michael Jackson is a powerful case study in estate planning—highlighting both successes and challenges. Whether you are a celebrity or not, ensuring you have a well-structured estate plan can protect your legacy and provide for your loved ones. Taking the right steps now can prevent legal battles and financial mismanagement in the future. At Trust & Will, we’re here to help keep things simple. You can create a fully customizable, state-specific estate plan from the comfort of your own home. Take our free quiz to see where you should get started, or compare our different estate planning and settlement options today!
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