Jimmy Kimmel Live Bandleader Cleto Escobedo Dies at Age 59

Cleto Escobedo III, the beloved bandleader of Jimmy Kimmel Live!, has died. He passed away early Tuesday at the age of 59. The news was confirmed by Kimmel himself in a heartfelt social media post.

The musician had led the show’s house band, Cleto and the Cletones, since its 2003 premiere. His sudden death has sent waves of grief through the entertainment community and the show’s staff.

A Lifelong Friendship and Musical Partnership

Jimmy Kimmel shared the news on Instagram. He called Escobedo a great friend, father, and musician. Kimmel said the loss left everyone heartbroken.

The two men shared a bond that spanned over five decades. They were neighbors growing up in Las Vegas. Kimmel wrote they had been inseparable since he was nine years old.

Working together on the late-night show was a dream for both. Escobedo’s band provided the show’s iconic musical backdrop for 21 years. His father, Cleto Escobedo Jr., often played saxophone in the band.

A Celebrated Career Beyond Late Night

Escobedo was born in Las Vegas in 1966. Music was his family’s tradition. His father was a professional musician before him.

His big break came touring with pop star Paula Abdul. He also performed with artists like Philip Bailey of Earth, Wind & Fire and Marc Anthony. He formed the Cletones in 1995, years before the Kimmel show began.

The band became a fixture of the show’s energetic atmosphere. Kimmel often celebrated his friend on air. He once joked about their childhood, recalling Escobedo’s playful bullying with affection.

Kimmel is expected to pay tribute on Tuesday night’s broadcast. The future of the show’s musical segment remains uncertain. The focus is now on honoring Escobedo’s legacy and supporting his family.

The entertainment world mourns the loss of a talented musician. Cleto Escobedo’s rhythm and friendship defined an era of late-night television. His memory will resonate on the Jimmy Kimmel Live! stage for years to come.

Thought you’d like to know

Q1: How old was Cleto Escobedo when he died?

Cleto Escobedo was 59 years old. He was born on August 23, 1966. His death was confirmed on Tuesday.

Q2: Will Jimmy Kimmel Live continue with the band?

The immediate future of Cleto and the Cletones on the show is unclear. Jimmy Kimmel will address the loss on his Tuesday broadcast. The band’s role is deeply tied to Escobedo’s leadership.

Q3: Who did Cleto Escobedo play for before Jimmy Kimmel?

He toured as a musician for Paula Abdul. He also performed with singer Marc Anthony and Earth, Wind & Fire’s Philip Bailey. His career in music began long before late-night TV.

Q4: How long was Cleto Escobedo the bandleader for Kimmel?

He held the position for the show’s entire 21-year run. Cleto and the Cletones started when *Jimmy Kimmel Live!* launched in 2003. They became a signature part of the program’s identity.