I do not like the term “necro-brand,” but it is what it is. As a devoted Michael Jackson fan, I understand how his image, his music, and his legacy have all been woven into products, memories, and even AI-powered recreations over the years. So, whether you own a favorite Jackson t-shirt, mug, or perhaps a cherished vinyl record, you’re part of a worldwide phenomenon that keeps his legacy alive. It’s not just merchandise—it’s a way for us, as fans, to hold onto the King of Pop’s incredible contributions and, somehow, keep him with us.
This concept, sometimes called “necro-branding,” happens when a celebrity’s image is shared or sold long after they’ve passed. Whether it’s through the hands of their estate or the pure enthusiasm of fans, these items aren’t just trinkets; they’re symbols. They help us revisit a moment in time, immortalize our connection, and even pass these icons onto the next generation. For someone like Michael Jackson, with fans spanning every corner of the globe, this form of legacy-building means he continues to inspire, thrill, and comfort, no matter how many years go by.
It’s worth noting that necro-branding is no small industry. Today’s stars, from Beyoncé to Taylor Swift, will one day find themselves part of it too. And with AI developing so rapidly, it’s easy to imagine our favorite stars—long gone—making new “appearances” and perhaps even performing new “concerts.” While the notion feels surreal, it might mean our kids, grandkids, and even future fans could experience a “live” Michael Jackson performance. Whether through holograms, AI-generated vocals, or immersive experiences, his music might never stop evolving.
Some say Elvis Presley is the ultimate necro-brand, and it’s true that he set the precedent. His influence endures decades after his passing, with memorabilia, impersonators, and global fan bases that mirror what Michael Jackson has. Like Elvis, Jackson’s brand is also a cultural phenomenon, consistently cherished and rediscovered by younger generations. I think of the way Michael’s music has been sampled, celebrated, and seamlessly integrated into today’s pop culture. Just watch a dancer perform his signature moonwalk or hear one of his hits sampled in modern music—you’ll see how he still shapes our world.
It’s not just music stars, either. Other icons like David Bowie, Prince, and Johnny Cash are remembered in similar ways. Deceased royals such as Princess Diana and Queen Elizabeth continue to be influential figures, as they were in life. For some fans, there’s a deep connection, an almost spiritual bond with these celebrities. Studies even back this up, showing that fans’ emotions don’t just fade—they evolve, deepening as they honor and remember these beloved figures.
Take Marilyn Monroe, another icon whose influence remains. She’s ranked highly on lists of top-earning deceased celebrities, thanks to the enduring appeal of her image. Her brand, like Elvis’s, is now managed by the Authentic Brands Group, which has made her a fixture in fashion, pop culture, and collectibles. And while the commercialization of celebrity might seem endless, it’s ultimately about the stories these icons continue to tell.
As for AI, it’s set to become even more integral in extending celebrities’ influence. Old footage of Michael Jackson could be “upgraded” by AI, removing imperfections or digitally restoring a show’s visuals. Future technology might allow a lifelike avatar of Jackson to perform in concerts, seamlessly bringing his artistry to new audiences. Imagine, for example, an AI-driven Michael Jackson “performing” an unreleased song or even interpreting new music in a way that stays true to his style. The possibilities are both fascinating and eerie.
In truth, if you’re a fan, you’re already part of the “necro-branding” phenomenon. Whether it’s wearing that t-shirt or simply playing “Billie Jean” on repeat, we’re keeping his spirit alive. With AI on the rise, there’s a whole new frontier for how we experience and remember our icons, challenging what it means to “know” a celebrity. For better or worse, as technology evolves, the lines between real and reproduced will become blurred. But as long as fans continue to celebrate and remember, the legacies of icons like Michael Jackson will never fade.
