As a longtime viewer, I’ve always appreciated the consistent quality of Jimmy Kimmel Live! since it first hit the air in 2003, and it’s still a reliable watch even with everything on TV today. But beyond Jimmy himself, there are people behind the scenes who truly make that show work. Cleto Escobedo III, the bandleader, was one of those vital figures – he’s been the musical heart of the program since day one. It’s incredibly sad news that Escobedo has passed away at 59, and Jimmy Kimmel shared a really touching tribute to him, speaking to their long friendship and creative partnership.
Kimmel took to Instagram to confirm Escobedo passed away earlier today, November 11, though he did not disclose his cause of death. The late-night host – who’d known his late bandleader since they were kids – shared a photo of his friend working on set. Via his message, the “heartbroken” Kimmel opened up about how he and Escobedo had been “inseparable” since childhood and shared what it was like working with him on the talk show:
It is with deep sadness that I share the news of the passing of Cleto Escobedo III, my dear friend, bandleader, father, son, and a truly wonderful person. We’ve been close since I was a child, and I’m incredibly grateful we had the chance to work together – it was a dream come true for both of us. Please keep Cleto’s family – his wife, children, and parents – in your thoughts and prayers.
I was so touched to learn more about Cleto Escobedo III, Jimmy Kimmel’s former neighbor and longtime friend! They both started out around the same time in the entertainment world, and when Jimmy got his big break with Live!, he immediately thought of Cleto to lead the band. It really makes sense, considering how close they were, and it’s just heartwarming to see Jimmy honor Cleto so beautifully. It wasn’t just me feeling that way, though – the comments were full of other celebrities sharing their support and kind words too.
- So sorry to hear this Jimmy. He was AWESOME. Love to his family. – Eric Stonestreet
- ❤️❤️❤️ love to [you], Cleto and his whole family. – Johnny Knoxville
- Love you Love to his incredible family. – Jeff Ross
- So sorry man. Love you Cleto❤️ – Ike Barinholtz
- I’m so sorry Jimmy. – John Stamos
This announcement follows a recent, sudden cancellation of a Live! taping, leaving guests waiting in line. At the time, the cancellation was explained as a “personal matter,” with no further information released. It’s unclear if that situation is related to this news about the bandleader.
Recently, Jimmy Kimmel Live! has had its ups and downs. In September, ABC temporarily took the show off the air after Kimmel made comments related to the death of political commentator Charlie Kirk. Disney executives made the decision, but the show returned five days later. Kimmel then spoke about the situation at the beginning of his first show back.
The show will go on, but it will definitely feel strange without Cleto Escobedo III leading the band. He was a long-time, essential part of the program, much like Jimmy Kimmel’s sidekick, Guillermo, and Kimmel’s late uncle, Frank. A talented musician with experience on many late-night shows and other projects, Cleto truly made a lasting impact. Everyone at TopMob sends their deepest sympathies to the Escobedo family and the entire team at Jimmy Kimmel Live! during this sad time.
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2025-11-12 02:12