Jimmy Kimmel’s Emotional Tribute to Late Band Member Cleto Escobedo

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Jimmy Kimmel emotionally honored his friend and bandleader, Cleto Escobedo III, who recently passed away at age 59. Kimmel shared a heartfelt tribute to Escobedo during his monologue on Jimmy Kimmel Live!, remembering their long friendship and Escobedo’s dedication to the show since its start in 2003.

On the latest episode of Jimmy Kimmel Live!, Jimmy Kimmel honored his friend and bandleader, Roy Escobedo, who had recently passed away. Kimmel shared that they first met as children growing up in Las Vegas, and that Escobedo was the only person he considered to lead his show’s band. They worked together daily since the show began.

We shared so many incredible experiences and laughed until our sides hurt. We developed a special connection, almost like our own secret language, where we understood each other without even needing to speak. Every day, during rehearsals, we just knew what the other was thinking, even without making eye contact.

The thought of anyone else leading the band really scared me. It absolutely had to be him. I dreaded even suggesting someone else, because simply saying, “My childhood friend plays sax – maybe he could lead?” didn’t feel right.

Jimmy Kimmel announced that Jimmy Kimmel Live! will be pausing production after the death of its bandleader. He concluded by thanking the bandleader’s parents, Cleto and Sylvia Escobedo, and encouraged viewers to cherish their loved ones.

I want to express my sincere gratitude to Cleto’s parents, Cleto and Sylvia, for raising such a wonderful son and for sharing him with all of us. They’ve always treated me like family, and I’m so thankful for that. Remember to value your friends, as life is precious and fleeting. Thank you for allowing me this moment. We’re going to take a short break from performing, but I wanted to share my thoughts about my friend with you tonight.

See the host’s full monologue dedicated to Escobedo below:

More to come…

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2025-11-12 17:28