The success of Michael Jackson is still very alive, even though four years have passed since his untimely death in 2009 at the age of 50.

The King of pop reclaimed the No.1 spot as the highest earning dead celebrity after Elizabeth Taylor knocked him to the second position last year.

The 'Man in the Mirror' singer's estimated earnings between October 2012 and October 2013 is $160 million, according to Forbes.

Jackson's posthumous success has earned more money this year than any living celebrity. Forbes sates, "It's the third time in the past five years that the top-earning celebrity in the world has come from the graveyard."

The closest living competitor to Jackson is American singer Madonna, her fortune in for the past 12 months is a reportedly $125 million. 

The 'Thriller' singer's wealth mostly comes from two Cirque Du Soleil shows. 'Immortal' which is a touring show that has grossed almost $300 million since last year's opening and a Las Vegas residence show called 'One'. 

Forbes also reports a large portion of his money is earned from the singer's own music and half of the Sony/ATV song catalog, which includes hits by The Beatles, Lady Gaga and Taylor Swift, plus many more. 

Ranking second, behind Jackson, is fellow singer and the King of Rock 'n' Roll, Elvis Presley with an estimated earnings of $55 million. Third place went to 'Peanuts' comic strip creator Charles Schulz, who raked in $37 million posthumously.

Elizabeth Taylor dropped to No.4 with $25 million, a huge drop from last year's estimate of $210 million. Rounding off the top five is reggae singer Bob Marley who earned $18 million in the past twelve months. 

Forbes created the list by extracting information from estate managers, lawyers and licensors and analysing estimated posthumous earnings between October 2012-2013.

Elvis Presley
Elvis Presley finished second on Forbes' list of highest earning dead celebrities

Michael Jackson
Michael Jackson earned an estimated $160 million in the last 12 months