Jimmy Kimmel Remembers Late Friend and Bandleader Cleto Escobedo III, Who Died at 59

Post by : Raina Nasser

Los Angeles: The music world is mourning the loss of Cleto Escobedo III, esteemed bandleader on Jimmy Kimmel Live! and childhood companion of Kimmel, who passed away at the age of 59. Jimmy Kimmel confirmed the tragic news through an emotional tribute on social media, where he reflected on Escobedo’s role as a “wonderful friend, father, and musician.”

On Tuesday afternoon, Kimmel shared a heartfelt message alongside a photo of Cleto. “This morning, we lost an extraordinary friend, father, son, and musician — my dear bandleader Cleto Escobedo III. To say our hearts are broken is putting it mildly,” Kimmel wrote.

He emphasized their deep bond, stating: “Cleto and I have been close since I was nine years old. The privilege of working together daily was a dream neither of us could have envisioned. Treasure your friendships, and keep Cleto’s wife, kids, and parents in your thoughts.”

While the specifics of his passing remain undisclosed, Kimmel’s touching message has garnered sympathy and support from fellow entertainers and fans alike.

Paula Abdul, singer and dancer, also paid homage to Escobedo, reminiscing about their early performances together. “My heart is heavy today as we bid farewell to the remarkable Cleto Escobedo III. I first encountered Cleto when he was playing sax in a small casino bar in Las Vegas. His undeniable talent and vibrant energy stood out,” she noted, adding that bringing him onboard for her inaugural world tour was one of her top choices.

A native of Las Vegas, Escobedo and Kimmel shared a bond that blossomed into a professional relationship when Kimmel launched Jimmy Kimmel Live! in 2003, where Cleto helmed the show’s resident band, Cleto and the Cletones.

Valued for his amicable aura and musical prowess, Escobedo played a variety of saxophones and often infused performances with an infectious enthusiasm that endeared him to viewers.

His passing comes shortly after a “personal matter” delayed the airing of Jimmy Kimmel Live! on November 6.

As tributes continue to flow, fans remember Cleto Escobedo III not just as an exceptional musician, but also as a steadfast friend and an inspiring creative talent who spread joy to countless lives through his music and television appearances.