Veteran music manager and co-CEO of Michael Jackson’s estate, John McClain, died on May 26, 2026, in Los Angeles, California. He was 71 years old.According to reports, McLean died after a long illness.
While some reports indicated that he suffered complications after his fall, the official cause of death has not yet been revealed.MacLean was widely regarded as one of the most influential behind-the-scenes figures in the music industry and played a major role in shaping the careers of many artists, including members of the Jackson family.
Michael Jackson’s estate He mourns John McClane death
Following news of his death, Michael Jackson’s official Instagram account shared a heartfelt tribute to mourn MacLean’s passing and celebrate his long association with the late pop icon.“Michael Jackson’s relationship with John McClane began in his teens and continued throughout Michael’s life,” the memo said.“When Michael passed away, John McLean, along with John Branca, became co-executors of Michael’s estate. Now, with deep sadness, the estate team shares the news of John McLean’s passing.”The statement also described McLean as a “wonderful human being” and remembered his contributions to music and the lives he touched.
“In addition to his role as co-executor, John was many things throughout his life – musician, songwriter, music industry executive but first and foremost, an amazing human being and a great friend to all who were lucky enough to have him in their lives.”He concluded the emotional tribute with the following words: “We will miss him here on Earth but we hope he will be reunited with Michael and that they will make music together again.”
John McClane played a major role in Michael Jackson’s legacy
After building a successful career in music, John McClane became closely associated with the Jackson family during the early 1980s and was instrumental in helping launch Janet Jackson to stardom.Michael Jackson later named McLean and John Branca as co-executors of his estate in his will.After Jackson’s death in 2009, McLean played a major role in managing and expanding the singer’s legacy. Under the estate’s leadership, many major projects have been launched, including archival albums, documentaries, films, Cirque du Soleil productions and the Broadway hit MJ: The Musical.He also helped oversee the recently released film Michael, inspired by the life of the late pop legend.According to Forbes, Michael Jackson’s estate is said to have generated more than $3 billion since the singer’s death.
John Branca pays tribute
John Branca also issued an emotional statement following McClain’s death.“I am deeply saddened by the loss of my partner and brother, John McClain,” Branca said.“John was one of the great innovators in the world of music and music marketing, a visionary who saw beyond the mundane and looked to the future.”Reflecting on their partnership as estate executors, Branca added, “When we were mentioned in Michael’s will, I knew he would bring insight into Michael’s music and that his friendship and dedication to Michael would underscore all the great projects we could bring to the world.”
