Jimmy Kimmel Live Band Renamed to The Cletones Following Cleto Escobedo III’s Death

The house band for “Jimmy Kimmel Live” has a new name. It is now officially called The Cletones. This change honors longtime bandleader Cleto Escobedo III, who passed away recently.

The updated title card appeared on the November 11 broadcast. This marks the first name change in the show’s 23-year history.

Kimmel Announces the Loss of His Childhood Friend

Jimmy Kimmel confirmed the tragic news on Instagram. He shared an emotional post about his friend’s passing. Kimmel wrote that they had been inseparable since age nine.

He called the loss of his bandleader completely heartbreaking. Working together on the show was a dream come true for both of them.

Cleto Escobedo III was a highly respected saxophonist. He originally formed Cleto and the Cletones back in 1995. When Kimmel’s late-night show launched in 2003, Escobedo and his father joined the band.

The news was also confirmed by other major outlets. According to Associated Press, the entertainment world is mourning the loss.

Show Pauses Production as Cast and Crew Grieve

Kimmel addressed the audience directly during his monologue. He was visibly emotional while speaking about his friend. “Everyone loves Cleto,” Kimmel told viewers. “We are devastated by this.”

The production of “Jimmy Kimmel Live” was temporarily halted. The show did not tape new episodes on November 12 and 13. This pause allowed the team to grieve together.

The show returned to air on November 14. Its return was dedicated to honoring Escobedo’s memory and legacy.

Kimmel’s sister, Jill, also shared a tribute on social media. She posted a photo of a memorial setup for Escobedo. Her caption expressed profound love and loss for her “brother.”

The band’s name change to The Cletones is a permanent tribute to its founder. This heartfelt gesture ensures Cleto Escobedo III’s spirit will live on every night on Jimmy Kimmel Live.

Thought you’d like to know-

Who was Cleto Escobedo III?

Cleto Escobedo III was the longtime bandleader for “Jimmy Kimmel Live.” He was a respected saxophonist and a childhood friend of Jimmy Kimmel. He led the house band since the show’s start in 2003.

What was the original name of the band?

The band was originally called Cleto and the Cletones. Escobedo formed the group in 1995. The name was officially shortened to The Cletones following his passing.

How did Jimmy Kimmel announce the news?

Kimmel shared the news in an emotional Instagram post. He also spoke about the loss during his on-air monologue. The host described Escobedo as a great friend and a wonderful man.

Did the show stop production?

Yes, production was paused for two days. The show did not tape new episodes on November 12 and 13. This was done out of respect for Escobedo and to allow the team to grieve.

How long was Cleto Escobedo III the bandleader?

He was the bandleader for the entire 23-year run of “Jimmy Kimmel Live.” His association with Kimmel, however, spanned decades, as they were friends since childhood.