Jimmy Kimmel Bandleader Cleto Escobedo III Dies at 59

Cleto Escobedo III, the beloved bandleader for “Jimmy Kimmel Live!”, has died. He was 59 years old. Host Jimmy Kimmel announced the sad news on social media Tuesday.

The death was sudden and unexpected. It prompted the postponement of Kimmel’s live show earlier this week.

A Friendship Forged in Childhood

Kimmel and Escobedo were friends since they were nine years old. They grew up as neighbors in Las Vegas. Their lifelong bond made their professional partnership unique.

Kimmel shared a heartfelt tribute on Instagram. He called Escobedo a great friend, father, and musician. He asked the public to keep Escobedo’s family in their prayers.

According to Reuters, the cause of death has not been disclosed. The news has sent waves of grief through the entertainment industry. Colleagues and fans are mourning the loss.

A Musical Legacy On and Off Screen

Escobedo led the show’s house band, Cleto and the Cletones, since its 2003 premiere. He was a multi-talented saxophonist. He also occasionally provided vocals.

His career extended far beyond the late-night show. He had his own record deal and toured with major artists. His resume included work with Paula Abdul and Earth, Wind & Fire.

He often shared the stage with his father, also a saxophonist. Their musical partnership spanned nearly two decades on the show. This father-son dynamic was a cherished part of the program’s fabric.

The passing of Cleto Escobedo III marks the end of an era for “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” and its viewers. His music and friendship were a cornerstone of the show for over twenty years. He will be deeply missed.

Thought you’d like to know-

How did Jimmy Kimmel announce Cleto’s passing?

Jimmy Kimmel shared the news in a heartfelt Instagram post. He included a photo of Escobedo with his saxophone. He described their friendship as inseparable since childhood.

What was Cleto Escobedo’s role on Jimmy Kimmel’s show?

He was the bandleader for “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” since it began. His band was called Cleto and the Cletones. He played saxophone and sometimes sang on the program.

Did Cleto Escobedo work with other artists?

Yes, he had an extensive career outside of late-night television. He toured with major pop and R&B acts. He also had his own record deal earlier in his career.

Was anyone else in Cleto’s family on the show?

Yes, his father, Cleto Escobedo Jr., played saxophone in the band. They performed together on the show for 19 years. It was a special family tradition for the audience.

Why was a recent episode of Jimmy Kimmel Live postponed?

The show was postponed due to a personal matter affecting the host. This was later confirmed to be related to Escobedo’s death. The episode was replaced with a rerun.

Trusted Sources

Associated Press, Reuters, Entertainment Weekly