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Elvis Presley one of the top-earning dead celebs

Rock 'n' roll legend Elvis Presley is seen during a concert in a file picture taken in the 1950s. AFP/Getty Images

(CBS News) Elvis Presley, who died 35 years ago to the day, is still bringing in money for his estate.

The Cirque Du Soleil show "Viva Elvis" helped Presley become the second highest paid deceased celebrity, right behind Michael Jackson.

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The Las Vegas show helped the "Hound Dog" singer bring in a total of $55 million in 2011, according Forbes, with tickets going for $175 each. The bulk of Presley's revenue comes from Graceland admissions, licensing and merchandizing.

In addition to Presley and Jackson, whose estate brought in a total of $170 million last year, other top-earning dead celebrities include sex goddess Marilyn Monroe, "Peanuts" cartoonist Charles Schulz, former Beatle John Lennon and screen legend Elizabeth Taylor..

Fans flocked to Graceland for the 35th anniversary of Presley's death on Wednesday night for a candlelight vigil. The rocker died on Aug. 16, 1977 from a heart attack after battling prescription drug abuse.


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