An article by Forbes indicates an unexpected twist, the late Matthew Perry has secured his place among the highest-earning deceased celebrities, joining the legendary company of music icons like Michael Jackson, Freddie Mercury, and Whitney Houston. According to Forbes' latest rankings, Perry’s inclusion underscores the financial impact that entertainers can maintain long after their passing.

Pop culture critic Chuck Klosterman once noted, “Dying is the only thing that guarantees a rock star will have a legacy that stretches beyond temporary relevance.” This observation rings especially true in 2024, as several celebrated musicians dominate the earnings charts, primarily through lucrative music catalog revenues and strategic estate deals.

At the forefront is Michael Jackson, whose estate continues to reap financial rewards following a recent court ruling that permits a $600 million sale of his publishing and recorded masters’ rights to Sony, despite objections from his mother, Katharine Jackson. Since his death in 2009, Jackson's estate has amassed over $3.3 billion, driven by multiple revenue streams, including Broadway productions and touring shows.

Freddie Mercury has also made a notable return to the list, earning an estimated $250 million for the first time since 2020. This resurgence follows a substantial $1 billion catalog sale to Sony, with profits shared among the remaining members of Queen.

Adding to the mix, Ric Ocasek of The Cars, who passed away in 2019, earned $45 million after Primary Wave acquired a stake in his publishing rights and likeness in September. This further emphasizes the lucrative potential for deceased artists.

Remarkably, Matthew Perry stands out as one of the few television actors to achieve such financial acclaim. The former "Friends" star, along with co-stars Jennifer Aniston, Courteney Cox, Lisa Kudrow, and David Schwimmer, is estimated to generate around $18 million annually in royalties from the iconic sitcom, a testament to its enduring popularity.

If this year’s list of high earners were to gather at a celestial café, Arnold Palmer’s namesake drink would likely be on the menu. The beverage continues to generate approximately $300 million annually, with additional profits from spiked versions produced by Molson Coors, thanks to the brand’s unwavering fan base.

As these beloved figures continue to thrive posthumously, their legacies endure, illustrating the remarkable power of creativity and cultural resonance that transcends time and mortality.