How Did Cleto Escobedo Die? Jimmy Kimmel Confirms Death of ‘Cleto and the Cletones’ Bandleader

Cleto Escobedo III, the longtime bandleader of Jimmy Kimmel Live! and frontman of Cleto and the Cletones, has died at the age of 59. The heartbreaking news was confirmed by host Jimmy Kimmel on November 11, 2025, who paid tribute to his lifelong friend in an emotional statement shared on social media.

Kimmel wrote that Escobedo’s passing marked an unimaginable loss for his family, friends, and the show’s entire community. “Early this morning, we lost a great friend, father, son, musician, and man — my longtime bandleader Cleto Escobedo III,” Kimmel said. “To say that we are heartbroken is an understatement.”

What Happened to Cleto Escobedo?

As of now, the exact cause of Cleto Escobedo’s death has not been officially confirmed. Kimmel announced only that his friend died on the morning of November 11, 2025. However, according to a report from Page Six, Escobedo had experienced complications following a liver transplant, though no further medical details have been shared publicly.

The news came as a shock to fans and colleagues, many of whom had seen Escobedo performing on Jimmy Kimmel Live! just months earlier. He was widely admired for his talent on the saxophone and his magnetic presence as the leader of the show’s house band since its debut in 2003.

The Cletones, which also include Escobedo’s father Cleto Escobedo Sr., along with Jeff Babko, Toshi Yanagi, Jimmy Earl, and Jonathan Dresel, have yet to release an official statement regarding their bandleader’s death. Many within the music and entertainment community have expressed grief and gratitude for his decades of influence on live television music.

Kimmel and Escobedo’s Lifelong Friendship

Jimmy Kimmel and Cleto Escobedo’s friendship stretched back to their childhood in Las Vegas. Kimmel has often spoken about their bond, recalling Escobedo’s early musical talent and the admiration he inspired even as a young student. “The whole school would gather to watch him play,” Kimmel said in a 2015 interview. “He’d get standing ovations. He was a prodigy.”

After touring with global acts such as Earth, Wind & Fire, Paula Abdul, and Marc Anthony, Escobedo joined Kimmel when the late-night host launched his ABC show in 2003. Kimmel said he insisted on having his close friend as his bandleader — a decision that would define two decades of late-night television. “There’s nobody in my life I have better chemistry with than him,” Kimmel once said.

Throughout the years, Escobedo became a familiar and beloved presence for millions of viewers. His playful on-air rapport with Kimmel and his smooth performances helped shape the show’s signature energy and charm. His death marks the end of an era for Jimmy Kimmel Live! and for fans who grew up watching their friendship unfold on screen.

Cleto Escobedo’s legacy will live on through his music, his family, and the countless memories shared by those who knew and loved him. His passing leaves a lasting void in late-night television and the music world alike.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: How did Cleto Escobedo die?

Jimmy Kimmel confirmed that Cleto Escobedo died on November 11, 2025. Reports suggest he faced complications following a liver transplant.

Q2: How old was Cleto Escobedo at the time of his death?

He was 59 years old when he passed away in November 2025.

Q3: What band was Cleto Escobedo part of?

He was the bandleader of Cleto and the Cletones, the house band on Jimmy Kimmel Live!.

Q4: How long did Cleto Escobedo and Jimmy Kimmel know each other?

The two had been friends since childhood in Las Vegas, sharing a bond for over five decades.

Q5: What is Cleto Escobedo’s legacy?

He is remembered as a talented musician, mentor, and loyal friend who helped define the sound and spirit of Jimmy Kimmel Live!.