Late-Night Talk Show Host Pays Tribute to His Oldest Friend-Jimmy Kimmel is mourning the death of Cleto Escobedo III, the bandleader for Jimmy Kimmel Live! who passed away on Tuesday, November 11, 2025, at the age of 59. Kimmel shared the news with a heartfelt tribute on Instagram, stating, “that we are heartbroken is an understatement.”
Escobedo, who had been Kimmel’s friend since childhood, was not only the bandleader on Kimmel’s late-night show but a central figure in Kimmel’s life for decades. The two met as children in Las Vegas, where they grew up across the street from one another. Their friendship began simply, with Kimmel recalling that they “just met one day on the street.”
What Happened
Escobedo’s death comes as a huge shock to the show’s fans, particularly as it was announced shortly after an unexpected cancellation of Thursday’s episode of Jimmy Kimmel Live!, which had been scheduled to feature guests David Duchovny, Joe Keery, and Madison Beer. While the exact cause and date of his death have not yet been disclosed, Kimmel’s emotional tribute has deeply resonated with fans and colleagues alike.
In the Instagram post, Kimmel fondly remembers his childhood friend, describing him as the best person he had “chemistry with” in his life. Kimmel went on to say, “The fact that we got to work together every day is a dream neither of us could ever have imagined would come true.”
Who Was Cleto Escobedo III?
Cleto Escobedo was a skilled saxophonist who began his musical career at a young age. He went on to tour with Phillip Bailey of Earth, Wind & Fire and Paula Abdul, as well as record with Marc Anthony, Tom Scott, and Take Six. His passion for music, combined with his innate ability to connect with others, made him a beloved figure in the music and entertainment industries.
In 2003, when Jimmy Kimmel Live! debuted, Kimmel knew he wanted his longtime friend to play a key role on the show. Kimmel had already formed a deep bond with Escobedo over their shared love of music, and when he needed a bandleader, Escobedo was the obvious choice. “Of course, I wanted great musicians, but I wanted somebody I had chemistry with,” Kimmel shared in a 2015 interview. “And there’s nobody in my life I have better chemistry with than him.”
Cleto’s Legacy on Jimmy Kimmel Live!
Escobedo’s legacy is intertwined with the history of Jimmy Kimmel Live!, where he served as the bandleader for the entire run of the show. Not only was he a fixture on stage, but he also played a major role in bringing together the musical and comedic elements that made the show so popular.
Kimmel’s tribute paints a picture of a man who was much more than just a bandleader—he was a mentor, a friend, and an indispensable part of the show. His role on the show was not just about music but about his ability to make everyone feel welcome and to inject humor and energy into the set.
Public and Social Media Reactions
Fans and colleagues have flooded social media with tributes to the late musician. Many have expressed their shock and sadness, with some highlighting his role in creating the warm, supportive atmosphere on set. “Cleto had a big heart, gentle soul, the glue that kept people together,” said his co-host, Aldi van der Walt. “She had patience and kindness coupled with humor, and that made her irresistible to people.”
Official Statements and Next Steps
While the family has yet to release further details regarding funeral arrangements or other formal tributes, Kimmel has asked for privacy during this difficult time. The Jimmy Kimmel Live! team is expected to make a more formal announcement regarding any memorial services for Escobedo in the coming days.
Kimmel concluded his tribute with a heartfelt plea: “Cherish your friends and please keep Cleto’s wife, children, and parents in your prayers.” The loss of Cleto Escobedo leaves a void in both Kimmel’s personal life and the hearts of all who worked with him.
This story may be updated as more information becomes available.
