Jimmy Kimmel’s bandleader Cleto Escobedo III dies

Jimmy Kimmel is mourning the loss of his longtime bandleader and childhood friend, Cleto Escobedo III, who passed away on Tuesday morning. Escobedo, who led the band Cleto and the Cletones on Kimmel’s late-night show “Jimmy Kimmel Live!”, was 59 years old. Kimmel announced the heartbreaking news on social media, expressing his deep sorrow at the loss of his dear friend.

In an Instagram post, Kimmel wrote, “Early this morning, we lost a great friend, father, son, musician, and man, my longtime bandleader Cleto Escobedo III. To say that we are heartbroken is an understatement. Cleto and I have been inseparable since I was nine years old.” The cause of Escobedo’s death has not been disclosed.

Kimmel and Escobedo shared a close bond that spanned over decades. They first met in 1977 when Kimmel moved to Las Vegas and became neighbors with Escobedo. The two forged a lifelong friendship that extended beyond their professional collaboration on the show. Kimmel reflected on their relationship in a heartfelt segment celebrating Escobedo’s 50th birthday, where he shared cherished memories and photos from their youth.

Escobedo’s journey to becoming Kimmel’s bandleader was a dream come true for both friends. In a 2021 interview with “Jimmy Kimmel Live’s” Guillermo, Escobedo recounted how Kimmel offered him the opportunity to be the show’s bandleader, a role he enthusiastically accepted. Working on the show was a highlight of Escobedo’s career, and he cherished every moment of it.

The news of Escobedo’s passing has left a void in the hearts of Kimmel, the show’s crew, and fans alike. Kimmel urged everyone to cherish their friends and to keep Escobedo’s wife, children, and parents in their thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. ABC News has reached out to a representative for Kimmel for further comment on Escobedo’s passing.

The legacy of Cleto Escobedo III lives on through his music, his friendship with Jimmy Kimmel, and the memories shared by all who knew him. He will be remembered as a talented musician, a devoted father and son, and a cherished friend to many. May he rest in peace.