Unknown Facts of Cleto Escobedo III and His Lifetime With Jimmy Kimmel

Unknown Facts of Cleto Escobedo III are gaining renewed attention following the beloved saxophonist’s death on November 11, 2025. Escobedo was more than a musician on a late-night stage. He was Jimmy Kimmel’s childhood friend and the musical heartbeat of Jimmy Kimmel Live for more than 20 years.

Jimmy Kimmel confirmed the news of Escobedo’s passing and delivered an emotional tribute on his show. He described him as a loyal friend, devoted family man and gifted musician. The specific cause of death has not been publicly released, but tributes across the entertainment industry highlight how deeply Escobedo shaped the show and the people around him.

A Lifetime Bond: Unknown Facts of Cleto Escobedo III

One of the most meaningful unknown facts of Cleto Escobedo III is how early his connection with Kimmel began. Both families settled in Las Vegas during childhood, living just across the street from one another. Their friendship started instantly and lasted a lifetime.

The two boys bonded over comedy, late-night television and creativity. Kimmel has said they spent summers inseparable, watching David Letterman and dreaming about the future. That shared passion later helped define the tone and humor of Jimmy Kimmel Live.

Escobedo was born on August 23, 1966, in Las Vegas, where he grew up in a musical household. His father worked on the Las Vegas Strip and played saxophone, which inspired Escobedo to start playing at a young age. After studying at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, he decided to pursue performing full time.

Before joining late night TV, Escobedo built an impressive career on stage. He performed with his local band on the Strip, gaining visibility that helped him land a tour gig with Paula Abdul in 1990. His talent later led him to work with major artists including Luis Miguel and Marc Anthony, and he signed a recording deal with a major label.

Another little-known detail is how Kimmel personally pushed for Escobedo to become his bandleader. When Kimmel prepared to launch his talk show in 2003, he insisted Escobedo lead the house band. After showcasing his live performances to network executives, Escobedo was officially hired — and he brought his father along to join the group. Together, they became Cleto and the Cletones, an essential part of the show’s sound.

Jimmy Kimmel and Cleto Escobedo III on ‘Jimmy Kimmel Live!’.

His Influence, His Music, and the Mark He Leaves Behind

Escobedo’s legacy on Jimmy Kimmel Live runs deeper than nightly music cues. His warm saxophone style, upbeat energy and playful exchanges with Kimmel shaped the rhythm of the show. Viewers felt the authenticity in their friendship, and his presence became a signature part of the program.

Off camera, Escobedo valued family life and stability after years of touring. The talk show schedule allowed him to balance music with raising his children. Friends describe him as kind, generous and grounded, with a deep commitment to those close to him.

With his passing, the show has paused production as Kimmel and the crew grieve. Decisions about the band’s future will come later. For now, the focus remains on honoring Escobedo’s life, work and the decades-long friendship that defined so much of his career.

In remembering him, the unknown facts of Cleto Escobedo III reveal a musician who turned a childhood friendship into a lifelong creative partnership — one that shaped a major American talk show and left a lasting impact on audiences everywhere.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: Who was Cleto Escobedo III to Jimmy Kimmel?

He was Kimmel’s childhood friend and the longtime bandleader of Jimmy Kimmel Live. Their bond stretched from childhood in Las Vegas to more than 20 years on television together.

Q2: What are some unknown facts of Cleto Escobedo III’s early life?

He was raised in a musical home, learned saxophone from his father and grew up across the street from Jimmy Kimmel. Their friendship started before either began working in entertainment.

Q3: Which artists did Cleto Escobedo III work with before late-night TV?

He toured with Paula Abdul and performed with major artists including Luis Miguel and Marc Anthony. He also signed a recording deal early in his career.

Q4: How did Cleto Escobedo III influence the sound of Jimmy Kimmel Live?

His saxophone and musical direction shaped the upbeat, flexible sound of the show. His chemistry with Kimmel added a warm and familiar tone for viewers.

Q5: What will happen to the show after his death?

The show has paused for several days. Long-term decisions about the band and structure have not yet been announced as the team continues to grieve.