Former Nirvana frontman Kurt Cobain has become the highest earning dead celebrity, according to US business website Forbes.com.
He has overtaken Elvis Presley, who held the position in the past four years. Cobain’s work earned $50m in the 12 months to October 2006, compared with Presley’s $42m.
Peanuts cartoon creator Charles Schulz was third, followed by John Lennon.
Forbes.com said that for some dead stars, “their work, as well as their iconic images, continues to appeal to fans who remember them, and to those born long after they died”.
The top 10 was made up by scientist Albert Einstein, artist Andy Warhol, children’s author Dr Seuss (Theodor Geisel), soul star Ray Charles, actress Marilyn Monroe and country singer Johnny Cash.