Net Worth Ranker
What Is Katherine Jackson’s Net Worth?
Katherine Jackson, the matriarch of the renowned Jackson musical family, has accumulated a net worth estimated at $100 million. This substantial wealth stems from her pivotal role in the success of her children, particularly the Jackson 5 and individual superstars Michael and Janet Jackson. Her influence extends beyond mere motherhood; she actively shaped their early careers, guiding their musical direction and providing unwavering support.
Katherine Jackson’s Role in the Jackson Family’s Success
Katherine’s early life began as Kattie B. Screws, born on May 4th, 1930, in Barbour County, Alabama. At the age of two, she contracted polio, which left her with a noticeable limp. In 1949, she married Joe Jackson, and together, they had ten children. Initially, the couple performed as a musical duo in Gary, Indiana, with Joe playing guitar and both singing. However, their real success began when their children displayed musical talent. In the early 1960s, Katherine and Joe formed The Jackson Brothers with their three eldest sons. Michael and Marlon joined later, leading to the formation of The Jackson 5. Under the guidance of Katherine and Joe, The Jackson 5 achieved immense success, propelled by hits like “ABC” and “I’ll Be There.” Michael’s solo career further amplified the family’s fame, contributing significantly to their collective wealth. While specific figures for Katherine’s direct earnings from these early ventures are not publicly detailed, her role in nurturing this musical dynasty is undeniable.
Inheritance and Estate Matters
A significant portion of Katherine Jackson’s net worth is tied to the estate of her late son, Michael Jackson. According to the terms of Michael’s will, Katherine inherited a 40% interest in his estate. The remaining 60% was divided between Michael’s three children (40%) and various children’s charities (20%). Upon Katherine’s death, her 40% share will transfer to Michael’s children, giving them a collective 80% stake in the estate (approximately 26.7% each). It’s important to note that at the time of Michael’s death in 2009, his estate was reportedly in debt to the tune of $500 million. However, through strategic management by estate lawyers John Branca and John McClaine, the estate has generated over $2 billion since then.
Two notable transactions highlight the estate’s financial turnaround: In 2016, Michael’s 50% share in the Sony/ATV music catalog, which includes a vast collection of Beatles’ hits, was sold for $750 million. Then, in February 2024, a 50% stake in Michael’s Mijac Music company, which owns Michael’s own tracks and thousands of other songs by artists like Sly and the Family Stone and Ray Charles, was sold for $600 million. While Katherine receives a portion of the profits generated by the estate, the exact amount varies and is not publicly disclosed.
Reports in 2018 indicated that Katherine was receiving a stipend of $67,000 per month from the Michael Jackson estate. However, it was alleged that the majority of this amount was distributed among her children and grandchildren. Specific figures mentioned included $37,000 per month to LaToya and Rebbie Jackson, $12,000 per month to Jermaine Jackson, and $10,000 per month to some of her grandchildren to cover rent. These figures, while reported, are difficult to independently verify and should be considered with caution.
Personal Life and Residences
Details regarding Katherine Jackson’s specific real estate holdings are not comprehensively documented in publicly available sources. While it is known that she has resided in various properties throughout her life, including her long-time residence in Calabasas, California, the specifics of ownership, purchase prices, and current market values are not easily accessible. Therefore, an accurate assessment of her real estate assets cannot be provided without further verifiable information.
Similarly, information regarding Katherine Jackson’s ownership of personal assets such as private jets or luxury cars is not publicly available. Therefore, it is not possible to include any concrete details about these assets in her net worth assessment.
Katherine Jackson’s Autobiography and Public Appearances
Katherine Jackson co-authored her autobiography, “My Family, The Jacksons,” in 1990. This book offers insights into the family’s history and experiences, but specific financial details related to the book’s sales and royalties are not publicly accessible. More recently, Katherine Jackson has been seen in the press defending her kids from public criticism – particularly Michael, demonstrating her continued dedication to her family’s legacy.
In 2012, Katherine Jackson was involved in a reported kidnapping incident. Some of the Jackson children reportedly accused their aunts and uncles, Janet, Jermaine, Randy, and Rebbie Jackson, of essentially kidnapping Katherine and taking her to a spa in Tucson, Arizona, when she was supposed to have custody over Jackson’s children. Katherine later appeared on ABC News to deny the reports that she had been taken against her will: “There are rumors going around about me that I’ve been kidnapped and held against my will. I’m today to let everybody know that I’m fine and I’m here with my children and my children would never do a thing like that, hold me against my will. That’s very stupid for people to think that…I’m devastated that while I’ve been away that my children, my grandchildren, have been taken away from me.” Unfortunately, the bizarre story never seemed to come to any satisfying conclusion, adding yet another strange chapter to the story of the Jackson family. The financial implications of this incident, if any, are not publicly known.
