They’re the ones keeping the money flowing, the image polished, and the brand alive. Whether it’s a lawyer, a family member, or a big-shot trust company, they control everything from royalties and trademarks to real estate and name rights.

Basically, they turn fame into a business that keeps running, even when the star’s long gone. 

In MJ’s case, his kids are beneficiaries of a trust, Elvis’ estate splits profits with a corporation, and Dr. Seuss’ goes partly to educational foundations.