Cleto Escobedo III, Jimmy Kimmel’s Bandleader and Best Friend, Dies at 59

Cleto Escobedo III, the beloved saxophonist and bandleader for Jimmy Kimmel Live!, has died. He was 59 years old. His passing was confirmed on November 11, 2025.

Escobedo was Jimmy Kimmel’s childhood best friend. He led the show’s house band, Cleto and the Cletones, for its entire 23-year run.

A Musical Partnership Forged in Childhood

Escobedo and Kimmel met as nine-year-olds in Las Vegas. Their shared love of comedy and music created an unbreakable bond. This friendship became the foundation for one of late-night television’s most enduring partnerships.

When Kimmel launched his ABC talk show in 2003, he immediately chose Escobedo. Kimmel told WABC in 2015 that their chemistry was irreplaceable. He said working with his best friend was a dream come true for both of them.

A Respected Musician’s Lasting Legacy

Before his late-night fame, Escobedo was an elite session musician. According to Billboard, his talent was sought by major artists across genres. He recorded with stars like Paula Abdul and Marc Anthony.

He also toured with Phillip Bailey of Earth, Wind & Fire. Escobedo valued his family life and appreciated the stability his Jimmy Kimmel Live! role provided. This allowed him to be a present father and husband.

Info at your fingertips

Who was Cleto Escobedo III?

Cleto Escobedo III was the saxophonist and bandleader for Jimmy Kimmel Live!. He co-created the show’s iconic theme music and led the house band for 23 years.

How did Jimmy Kimmel and Cleto Escobedo meet?

They met as children living across the street from each other in Las Vegas. Their lifelong friendship began when they were both nine years old.

What was the name of the house band on Jimmy Kimmel Live!?

The house band was called Cleto and the Cletones. Escobedo led the group from the show’s premiere in 2003 until his passing.

Did any other family members perform on the show?

Yes, his father, Cleto Escobedo Jr., regularly performed on tenor and alto saxophones. They played together on the show for nearly two decades.

What happens to Jimmy Kimmel Live! now?

The show has canceled scheduled episodes to grieve. ABC has not announced when new episodes will resume production and air.

What artists did Cleto Escobedo work with?

He recorded with Paula Abdul, Marc Anthony, and Tom Scott. He also toured with Earth, Wind & Fire’s Phillip Bailey as a respected session musician.

Trusted Sources

Associated Press, Reuters, CBS News, Billboard, The New York Times