Michael Jackson died in debt, but how come his kids are worth $150 million and living in luxury homes across California

Michael Jackson died in 2009 with over $500 million in debt, yet his three children, Prince, Paris, and Bigi, are now multimillionaires living in luxury. Today, they each reportedly have a net worth of around $150 million. Their wealth has grown thanks to soaring music royalties, merchandise, and lucrative media deals struck by the Jackson estate since the pop icon’s death.

Though Jackson’s financial troubles made headlines at the time of his passing, his estate has rebounded dramatically. Revenue from his music catalogue, the stage show MJ: The Musical, and licensing deals has pushed the value of the estate beyond $2 billion.

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A major boost came in 2023 when Sony Music Group acquired half of Jackson’s music catalogue for $600 million, the largest deal of its kind for a single musician’s work. That windfall directly benefited Jackson’s heirs.

According to his will, 40 per cent of his estate went to his three children, 40 per cent to his mother Katherine, and the remaining 20 per cent to charity.

Prince Jackson: Living in Rancho Palos Verdes

Michael’s eldest son, Prince Jackson, now lives in a $2.2 million home in Rancho Palos Verdes, California. A business graduate from Loyola Marymount University, Prince co-founded the Heal Los Angeles charity and prefers a quieter life away from Hollywood.

Though he dabbled in entertainment early on, including a cameo in 90210, he later said, “I didn’t get that gene,” referring to his father’s stage presence.

Paris Jackson: Actress, Model, and Musician

Paris Jackson, born in 1998, followed her father's footsteps into showbiz. She’s acted in films like Gringo and shows like American Horror Story, modeled for top brands including KVD Beauty, and released her own music, including the 2020 album Wilted.


She has also purchased and sold several high-end homes. Her most recent residence is a $3.8 million Hollywood Hills estate complete with a pool, art studio, and home theatre.


Despite personal struggles after her father's death, Paris has openly spoken about her recovery and celebrated five years of sobriety this year.

Bigi Jackson: The Quietest of the Three

Michael’s youngest son, Bigi (formerly known as Blanket), is the most private of the siblings. In 2020, shortly after turning 18, he bought a $2.6 million home in Calabasas, California. The six-bedroom property sits in a gated community with round-the-clock security.

Unlike his older siblings, Bigi has largely avoided the spotlight but reportedly enjoys hobbies and keeps a low profile.

How they built wealth from a legacy

Though Michael Jackson’s financial mismanagement once cast a shadow over his estate, careful handling by estate executors, including smart licensing and media ventures, has restored and even expanded his legacy’s value.