World's highest-earning couple named (+ list)

Gisele Bundchen and Tom Brady have been named the world' highest-earning couple with a combined income of $76 million (NZ$90.9 million). Photo / Wikimedia Commons image from author Gisele_B.jpg: Gabriel Marchi

Gisele Bundchen and Tom Brady have been named the world's highest-earning couple.

The supermodel and her NFL player husband earned a staggering $76 million (NZ$90.9 million) between them during the period May 2010-2011, with the Brazilian beauty's fashion career, endorsements and business deals bringing in a $45 million share of their joint income.

According to Forbes magazine, Beyonce Knowles and Jay-Z earned just $4 million less in the same period, with the Run the World (Girls) hitmaker bringing in $35 million from her record sales and endorsement deals and her spouse generating $37 million through his contract with Live Nation, a stake in the New Jersey Nets, his 40/40 Club chain and ad firm Translation.

Placed third were Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie, who earned $50 million after the actor brought in $20 million and his partner - with who he raises six children - earning the additional $30 million.

David and Victoria Beckham were placed fourth in the list with combined earnings of $45 million - though $40 million of the total was earned by the soccer star.

Twilight Saga co-stars and real-life couple Robert Pattinson and Kristen Stewart rounded off the top five, contributing equally to their $40 million fortune.

Top five highest-earning couples according to Forbes magazine:

1. Gisele Bundchen and Tom Brady - $76 million (NZ$90.9 million)

2. Beyonce Knowles and Jay-Z - $72 million (NZ$86.2 million)

3. Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie - $50 million (NZ$59.8 million)

4. David and Victoria Beckham - $45 million (NZ$53.8 million)

5. Robert Pattinson and Kristen Stewart - $40 million (NZ$47.9 million)

- BANG! Showbiz