Jimmy Kimmel Bandleader Cleto Escobedo Dies at 59 After Liver Transplant Complications

Cleto Escobedo III, the longtime bandleader for “Jimmy Kimmel Live!”, has died. He was 59 years old. The musician passed away early Tuesday morning from complications following a liver transplant. Jimmy Kimmel confirmed the news in an emotional social media post, calling his friend of 50 years “inseparable.”

Escobedo led the show’s house band, Cleto and the Cletones, since its premiere in 2003. His energetic saxophone performances became a signature element of the ABC late-night program. The bandleader’s sudden death has sent shockwaves through the entertainment industry and among the show’s loyal viewers.

A Musical Partnership Forged in Childhood

Kimmel and Escobedo first met as nine-year-old boys in Las Vegas. Their friendship spanned five decades before becoming a professional partnership. According to The Hollywood Reporter, Kimmel once described their bond as being like brothers.

When Kimmel launched his late-night show in 2003, bringing Escobedo aboard was his first priority. The bandleader assembled his group, which included his own father on saxophone. Their 22-year run together represents one of the longest tenures for any house band in modern television history.

Escobedo was a multi-talented musician who mastered several saxophone varieties. Beyond his television work, he toured with major artists including Paula Abdul and Phillip Bailey of Earth, Wind & Fire. He also recorded sessions with Marc Anthony and other prominent musicians throughout his career.

The Impact on Late-Night Television’s Soundscape

Escobedo’s passing leaves a significant void in the world of late-night television. Cleto and the Cletones provided the musical backdrop for thousands of episodes. Their sound became as recognizable as Kimmel’s comedy style itself.

The band’s consistency offered viewers a sense of familiarity and comfort. In an era of frequent television changes, the group remained a stable presence. Their chemistry with guests and seamless musical transitions enhanced the show’s flow.

Production on “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” faces immediate uncertainty following this loss. The show canceled its previous Thursday broadcast, citing a “personal matter.” How the program will address Escobedo’s absence remains unclear as production staff and fellow band members grieve.

The entertainment world has lost more than a talented musician with Cleto Escobedo’s passing. It has lost the heart of a show that defined late-night television for a generation. His legacy will resonate through the countless moments he helped elevate with his musical brilliance.

Thought you’d like to know-

What was the cause of Cleto Escobedo’s death?

Cleto Escobedo died from complications following liver transplant surgery. The exact nature of these complications hasn’t been publicly detailed. His passing occurred early on Tuesday morning.

How long was Cleto Escobedo the bandleader for Jimmy Kimmel?

He served as bandleader for the entire 22-year history of “Jimmy Kimmel Live!”. Escobedo and his band started with the show’s premiere in January 2003. They performed through the most recent episodes before his hospitalization.

Did Jimmy Kimmel and Cleto Escobedo know each other before the show?

Yes, they were childhood friends who met at age nine in Las Vegas. Their friendship spanned more than five decades before the television show began. Kimmel often described their relationship as being like brothers.

Who are the other members of Cleto and the Cletones?

The band includes guitarist Toshi Yanagi, bassist Jimmy Earl, keyboardist Jeff Babko, and drummer Jonathan Dresel. Cleto Escobedo Jr., the bandleader’s father, also played saxophone with the group. The ensemble has remained largely unchanged throughout the show’s run.

Will Jimmy Kimmel Live! continue with the same house band?

No official announcement has been made regarding the band’s future. The show faces significant decisions about how to proceed musically. Any changes would need to respect Escobedo’s legacy while maintaining the program’s signature sound.

What other artists did Cleto Escobedo perform with?

Beyond his television work, he toured with Paula Abdul and Earth, Wind & Fire’s Phillip Bailey. He also recorded sessions with Marc Anthony and other notable musicians. His career demonstrated remarkable versatility across musical genres.