Jimmy Kimmels Band Leader Cleto Escobedo Dies

Jimmy Kimmel’s Bandleader Cleto Escobedo Dies, Prompting Heartfelt Tribute

Cleto Escobedo, the longtime bandleader for Jimmy Kimmel’s late-night talk show, has passed away. The musician had been a core part of “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” since its very first episode in 2003. His death was announced by Kimmel himself in a moving social media post.

The news has sent waves of grief through the entertainment community. Escobedo was not just an employee but a cherished friend to the host for nearly five decades.

Kimmel’s Emotional Farewell to a Lifelong Friend

Jimmy Kimmel shared the sad news on his Instagram. He posted a photo of Escobedo playing his saxophone on stage. The caption expressed profound sorrow and deep personal loss.

“Early this morning, we lost a great friend, father, son, musician and man, my longtime bandleader Cleto Escobedo III,” Kimmel wrote. He described the loss as more than just heartbreak. Their friendship began when they were both just nine years old.

Kimmel highlighted the uniqueness of their professional journey. He called working together every day a dream come true for both of them. He asked the public to keep Escobedo’s family in their prayers.

A Partnership Forged in Childhood

Kimmel once revealed his initial nervousness about proposing Escobedo for the bandleader role. He told this story in an interview with Eyewitness News. He worried network executives would reject his childhood best friend.

To secure the job, Kimmel took the president of ABC to see Escobedo perform. The executive loved his performance immediately. This sealed the deal and brought their childhood bond to national television.

Kimmel’s reasoning was always about chemistry. He wanted great musicians on his show. But he knew nobody he had better chemistry with than Cleto.

The death of Jimmy Kimmel’s bandleader Cleto Escobedo marks the end of a legendary television partnership. Their story reminds us of the power of lifelong friendship and shared dreams. The stage at “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” will forever hold his memory.

Thought you’d like to know

Who was Cleto Escobedo?

Cleto Escobedo was the bandleader for “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” from its start in 2003. He was also the host’s closest childhood friend. He was a talented saxophonist and musician.

How did Jimmy Kimmel announce the news?

Kimmel announced the passing on his Instagram account. He shared a heartfelt tribute alongside a photo of Escobedo. He asked for prayers for Escobedo’s wife, children, and parents.

How long had Kimmel and Escobedo been friends?

Their friendship spanned nearly their entire lives. Kimmel stated they had been inseparable since they were nine years old. Their professional partnership was a dream realized.

What was Escobedo’s role on the show?

He led the show’s house band, Cleto and the Cletones. His role involved providing music for the nightly broadcast. He was a fixture on the program for over two decades.

How did Escobedo get the job as bandleader?

Kimmel personally advocated for him despite initial nerves. He arranged for an ABC executive to see Escobedo perform live. The executive was impressed and approved the hiring.