LOS ANGELES, Calif. — Heartfelt Tributes Pour In as Jimmy Kimmel Mourns the Loss of Cleto Escobedo III
The city of Los Angeles and the entertainment world are mourning the heartbreaking loss of Cleto Escobedo III, the beloved bandleader of Jimmy Kimmel Live! and lifelong friend of late-night host Jimmy Kimmel, who passed away on November 11, 2025, at the age of 59. The news has left a deep emotional void both on and off the screen, marking the end of one of television’s most cherished friendships.
Kimmel and Escobedo’s story began long before fame found them. Growing up together in Las Vegas, they shared a love for music, humor, and creativity that would eventually blossom into a decades-long partnership. When Jimmy Kimmel Live! first aired in 2003, Cleto was there from day one, standing beside his childhood friend, saxophone in hand, leading the show’s house band, Cleto and the Cletones. His smooth playing, bright spirit, and effortless charisma became an essential heartbeat of the show, bringing energy to every episode and joy to millions of viewers.
In his emotional tribute, Jimmy Kimmel described Cleto not only as a colleague but as “the brother I got to laugh with every single day.” He added that their friendship was something he never took for granted, and that working alongside his closest friend was “a gift that made every day on set feel like home.”
Escobedo’s influence extended far beyond the television studio. Before joining Kimmel, he had already carved out a successful career in music, performing alongside renowned artists such as Stevie Wonder, Marc Anthony, and Earth, Wind & Fire. His versatility, warmth, and talent earned him respect from fellow musicians and admiration from audiences around the world. Whether on stage or backstage, Cleto carried himself with the same humility and joy that made him universally loved.
Fans and colleagues have flooded social media with memories, tributes, and heartfelt messages. Musicians praised his artistry; TV personalities remembered his kindness; and fans spoke of how his laughter brightened their evenings. His loss, many noted, feels like losing part of what made late-night television so special.
In the days since his passing, the Jimmy Kimmel Live! family has gathered to honor Cleto’s memory, celebrating not only his incredible musicianship but also his unwavering positivity and friendship. Kimmel is reportedly planning a special on-air tribute to commemorate Cleto’s life, featuring musical guests, archival footage, and personal stories from those who knew him best.
Cleto Escobedo III leaves behind an enduring legacy — not just in the music he made, but in the lives he touched with his warmth, humor, and generosity. He was more than a bandleader; he was a symbol of loyalty, creativity, and the power of lifelong friendship.
As Jimmy Kimmel said, “Every note he played made the world brighter. Every laugh we shared made life better.” The world of entertainment will never be quite the same without Cleto’s melody.
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