Cleto Escobedo III, the longtime bandleader for “Jimmy Kimmel Live!”, has died. He was 59 years old. His cause of death has now been officially confirmed.

According to his death certificate, he died from cardiogenic shock. This condition occurs when the heart cannot pump enough blood.
Underlying Health Conditions Detailed in Report
The death certificate, obtained by TMZ, listed several contributing factors. Vasodilatory shock and alcoholic cirrhosis were underlying causes. Other conditions included sepsis and pneumonia.
Escobedo passed away at UCLA Medical Center. Rolling Stone confirmed his death followed complications from a liver transplant. His body was unable to recover from the combined stress of these conditions.
A Beloved Figure Remembered by Friends and Colleagues
Jimmy Kimmel announced the news on his late-night show this week. He was visibly emotional, calling Escobedo a great friend. Kimmel described him as humble, kind, and always funny.
Jeff Babko, the show’s keyboardist, also paid tribute. He told Rolling Stone that Escobedo loved soulful music. Babko said his friend fought hard to stay with his family until the very end.
The music world has lost a truly soulful performer. Cleto Escobedo III’s cause of death underscores the severity of his final health battle, leaving a void in the late-night television community.
Thought you’d like to know-
What is cardiogenic shock?
Cardiogenic shock is a life-threatening condition where the heart fails to pump enough blood. It is often caused by a severe heart attack. This leads to inadequate blood flow to the body’s organs.
How long was Cleto Escobedo the bandleader for Jimmy Kimmel?
Cleto Escobedo III was the bandleader for the show for over two decades. He was a foundational part of the program’s musical identity. His tenure spanned most of the show’s run.
What other causes contributed to his death?
His death certificate listed alcoholic cirrhosis as an underlying cause. Other factors included sepsis and graft versus host disease. These conditions created a complex and ultimately fatal health situation.
Where did Cleto Escobedo die?
He died at UCLA Medical Center in Los Angeles. He was receiving treatment there for complications. His death followed a liver transplant procedure.
How did Jimmy Kimmel react to his death?
Jimmy Kimmel broke down in tears during his show’s monologue. He shared heartfelt memories of their lifelong friendship. Kimmel said Escobedo was like an older brother to him.
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