Marilyn Monroe IP Rights Purchased

Authentic Brands Group LLC (ABG), a leading intellectual property corporation led by Toronto-based Jamie Salter, recently announced their acquisition of the intellectual property rights of Marilyn Monroe. The purchase was made in conjunction with National Entertainment Collectibles Inc., a global media and entertainment company. A press release by ABG stated that “Marilyn Monroe’s legacy will not only live, but it will be greatly enhanced by ABG’s and NECA’s unparalleled track record in building brands… ABG is a leader in celebrity business ventures.” The Munroe estate was previously administered by Anna Strasberg, wife of the late Lee Strasberg, who will continue her involvement as a minority partner.
While there is some discomfort in the idea of companies being able to purchase merchandising rights of celerities who are no longer around to actually endorse anything, there is no denying the lucatriveness of the business. The Michael Jackson estate has made $275 million since his death two summers ago. Elvis Presley’s estate earned $60 million in 2010 alone, according to Forbes magazine.