Died: August 16, 1977

Once the loose ends have been tied with the numerous deals to have been made after Jackson's death, he could take over as the richest dead celeb. But until then, the King, Elvis Presley remains at the top.

Royalties and album sales, not to mention tourism at Graceland (£18m alone), have meant the Elvis estate is well stocked. As with other dead stars, Elvis's image has been used on everything from Lipton's Ice Tea to Apple's iMac. And a new 'Jail House Rock' themed Barbie combined with 75 years of Elvis event is set to boost his earnings even more.

Who benefits? His widow Priscilla has built an incredible empire and her and her daughter Lisa-Marie are set up for life with its rewards.