Madonna tops Forbes’ richest celebrities list, beats Steven Spielberg

Madonna’s last album may not have been as big a hit as she hoped, but her international tour to support the album was such a massive success that the Material Girl was named the top earning celebrity for 2013 by Forbes magazine.

The magazine said that the “Like A Virgin” singer earned $125 million, mostly from the tour to support MDNA. By featuring her familiar hits, Madonna was able to draw fans who were far more interested in hearing “Vogue” live again than hearing “Give Me All Your Luvin.” The tour grossed $305 million, helping Madonna earn $125 million herself between June 2012 and June 2013.

Oscar-winning director Steven Spielberg holds the No. 2 spot with $100 million. Most of it comes from earnings through past hits likeJaws and E.T., but the prolific filmmaker still produces box office hits, like last year’s Lincoln. He’s also earning money through TV hits like CBS’ Under The Dome.

E.L. James, Howard Stern and Simon Cowell all tied for third with $95 million. Stern and Cowell were named the highest paid American TV personalities, while James is the top-earning author.
Author James Patterson ($91 million), Glenn Beck ($90 million), Michael Bay ($82 million) and Jerry Bruckheimer ($80 million) rounded out the list.

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