Michael Jackson’s estate is now worth more than $2 billion, according to Forbes, as daughter Paris Jackson seeks a $600 million transfer to a family trust in an ongoing dispute over inheritance.
The financial empire built around Michael Jackson has grown substantially since his death in 2009. Forbes estimates the estate generated $140 million over the past 12 months through music-related businesses, live entertainment and a Hollywood biopic.
The valuation has coincided with a dispute over how the singer’s wealth should reach his children.
Paris Jackson Challenges Estate Management
In a petition filed October 29 in Los Angeles County Superior Court, Paris Jackson asked a judge to order a preliminary transfer of approximately $600 million into the Michael Jackson Family Trust, according to the Los Angeles Times.
The trust was established for Paris and her brothers, Prince and Bigi Jackson. Paris argues that it remains unfunded more than 17 years after their father’s death, despite the estate’s substantial financial growth. Her brothers are beneficiaries of the trust but are not named as petitioners in this filing.
An estate accounting cited in the petition reportedly showed approximately $850 million in cash and cash equivalents at the end of 2024. Paris is asking for a partial distribution to the trust, not a personal payment of $600 million.
Estate Rejects Claims of Financial Mismanagement
John Branca, the estate’s remaining executor, disputes Paris’s allegations. An estate representative told Forbes that unresolved legal matters, particularly ongoing litigation with the Internal Revenue Service, prevent the full funding of individual and charitable trusts.
The estate says more than $200 million has already been distributed for the beneficiaries’ benefit. Paris’s representatives have challenged the estate’s account of payments and raised concerns about its financial management. The two sides therefore disagree over both the handling of the estate and the amount already provided to beneficiaries.
How the Estate Built Its Fortune
The estate’s commercial growth includes a $750 million Sony deal involving the ATV music catalog in 2016 and a separate $600 million transaction involving half of Jackson’s music masters and publishing rights in 2024.
The Michael biopic, which Forbes reported had grossed more than $1 billion worldwide, has added another major revenue source. Music streaming, Broadway productions and Cirque du Soleil shows also contribute to the business.
A hearing on Paris’s distribution request is scheduled for December 4, according to PEOPLE. The requested transfer has not been approved.
Sources
Related coverage: Techy Quantum previously reported on Macaulay Culkin’s Hollywood career and his friendship with Michael Jackson.
