Michael Jackson 'top-earning' dead celebrity

Michael Jackson is the top-earning dead celebrity, according to Forbes.com.

The website found that Jackson, who died on 25 June 2009 at the age of 50, made $170 million (£106.2 million) over the last 12 months.

Jackson was known as the 'King of Pop' throughout his career, which started at the age of 11 when he performed as part of the Jackson Five.

This is the second year running that the 'Thriller' singer has topped the list, as his publishing company continues to add millions to his estate.

The second top-earning celebrity was Elvis Presley, who died on 16 August 1977 at the age of 42 from a heart attack. The 'Always on my Mind' singer made $55 million (£34.3 million) over the last year.

Hollywood legend Marilyn Monroe came third in the list making $27 million (£16.6 million), with the Authentic Brands Group buying her estate this year.

In fourth place is the cartoonist Charles Schulz who made $25 million (£15.6 million), as Iconix purchased an 80 per cent stake in his estate, which includes drawings of Charlie Brown and Snoopy.

John Lennon and Elizabeth Taylor are joint fifth, both earning £12 million (£7.5 million) this year.