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Cleto Escobedo III — the longtime bandleader and cherished friend of Jimmy Kimmel — has passed away at the age of 59, the late-night host announced Tuesday.
Kimmel paid a heartfelt tribute on Instagram, calling Escobedo’s passing “an unimaginable loss.” He wrote,
“To say we are heartbroken is an understatement. Working together every day was a dream come true. Please keep Cleto’s wife, children, and parents in your prayers.”
🎷 A Lifelong Friendship That Started in Las Vega
Escobedo and Kimmel first met as kids growing up on the same Las Vegas street — a friendship that would last more than five decades.
“We were inseparable,” Kimmel recalled. “No one in my life I’ve had better chemistry with than him.”
Their shared love for comedy and music inspired both men from a young age. In a 2022 interview, Escobedo said they were huge fans of David Letterman and always dreamed of working in entertainment.
🎶 From Touring Musician to TV Fame
Before joining Jimmy Kimmel Live!, Escobedo built a successful music career, performing with legends like Phillip Bailey (Earth, Wind & Fire) and Paula Abdul, and recording alongside Marc Anthony, Tom Scott, and Take Six.
When Kimmel launched his ABC talk show in 2003, he knew exactly who he wanted leading the house band: Cleto.
“Of course, I wanted great musicians,” Kimmel said in a 2015 interview, “but I also wanted someone I had real chemistry with — and that was Cleto.”
💫 On-Screen Magic and Family Legacy
Escobedo’s father, Cleto Escobedo Sr., also performed in the Kimmel band, making them one of television’s most beloved father-son duos. The two celebrated nearly 20 years together on the show in 2022.
Escobedo often said his favorite part of being bandleader wasn’t fame — it was family time.
“Touring is great, but it’s tough on families. Working on the show let me be home — and that’s priceless.”
🕊 Remembering Cleto Escobedo III
Escobedo’s passing came just days after a canceled episode of Jimmy Kimmel Live! that had been set to feature David Duchovny, Joe Keery, and Madison Beer.
His cause of death has not yet been disclosed.
He is survived by his wife Lori, their two children, and a legacy of music, laughter, and friendship that touched millions.
