Jimmy Kimmel’s Bandleader Cleto Escobedo III Dies at 59: We’ve Been ‘Inseparable Since I Was Nine Years Old’

The entertainment world is mourning the loss of Cleto Escobedo III, the longtime bandleader for "Jimmy Kimmel Live!" and a cherished friend of the host, who has passed away at the age of 59. Jimmy Kimmel shared the devastating news in a heartfelt Instagram post, describing the death of his great friend, father, son, and musician as profoundly heartbreaking. He reflected on a bond that started when they were both nine years old, noting that their daily work together on the show fulfilled a shared dream. Kimmel urged the public to cherish their friends and to keep Escobedo’s wife, children, and parents in their thoughts during this difficult time.

Their lifelong friendship began as childhood neighbors in Las Vegas. While Kimmel pursued a path in comedy, Escobedo established his own musical ensemble, Cleto and the Cletones, in 1995, performing as its saxophonist. When "Jimmy Kimmel Live!" premiered on ABC in 2003, Kimmel personally selected Escobedo to helm the house band—a gesture Escobedo deeply valued. In a 2013 interview with ABC7, he expressed his appreciation, stating, "I always thank him for this gig because he could have tried to get somebody that was established and would help the show more, being a bigger name or whatever. But he trusted me with this job, and I’ve tried to do the best I can." This decision highlighted a partnership built on mutual trust and decades of loyalty.

The cause of death has not been made public. However, according to a report from Variety, Escobedo’s health was cited as the "personal reason" for the abrupt cancellation of last Thursday’s episode. The late-night show is scheduled to resume on Monday with Kimmel returning as host. This sudden loss reveals the delicate nature of producing a daily television program, where unforeseen personal circumstances can immediately disrupt production and impact the entire crew.

Beyond his role on television, Escobedo maintained a dynamic career as a touring musician, sharing the stage with an array of celebrated artists, including pop star Paula Abdul, salsa legend Marc Anthony, and Phillip Bailey of Earth, Wind & Fire. Earth, Wind & Fire—the iconic group responsible for timeless hits such as "September" and "Boogie Wonderland"—has been a defining force in funk and R&B since the 1970s. Performing with Bailey placed Escobedo among music’s elite, underscoring his remarkable versatility and skill. His seamless transition between the disciplined world of broadcast and the spontaneity of live performance earned him widespread admiration across both fields, ensuring his legacy will endure far beyond the confines of the "Jimmy Kimmel Live!" soundstage.