Michael Jackson, known worldwide as the King of Pop, has taken back the title of most searched music artist on Google, ending BTS’s long run at the top. Reports this year confirm that Michael Jackson is now the most searched artist on Google in 2026 so far. The news has surprised many, since Jackson passed away nearly 17 years ago and has not released new music since then.
The reason behind this comeback is simple: a movie. A long-awaited biopic called “Michael” was released in theaters this year and has continued to do well at the box office, bringing back huge public interest in Jackson’s life and his music. The film’s success has pushed fans back to his classic songs, sparking fresh conversations online.
This renewed interest is not limited to just search engines. Michael Jackson has also reclaimed the top spot as the world’s number one artist on streaming platforms, moving ahead of major stars including BTS, Taylor Swift, and Justin Bieber. By May 2026, he ranked as the number one global digital artist, ahead of names like Justin Bieber, BTS, Bad Bunny, Taylor Swift, Bruno Mars, Drake, and Rihanna.
Songs like “Billie Jean,” “Beat It,” “Bad,” and “Thriller” have seen a strong jump in streams, proving that his classic hits still connect deeply with both old and new fans.
This unexpected wave of popularity shows that even years after his passing, Michael Jackson’s music and legacy remain more powerful than ever, capturing the attention of a whole new generation of listeners.
