- Cleto Escobedo III, the bandleader for “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” and a childhood friend of the host, has died at the age of 59.
- Jimmy Kimmel announced the news on Tuesday, calling Escobedo a “great friend, father, son, musician and man.”
- The two had been “inseparable” since they were nine years old, working together on the late-night show since its beginning.
- No cause of death has been shared publicly at this time.
Hollywood Mourns as Jimmy Kimmel Announces Death of Bandleader and Childhood Friend
The world of late-night television is in mourning following the sudden passing of Cleto Escobedo III, the beloved bandleader of “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” and a lifelong friend of the host. He was 59.
Jimmy Kimmel shared the heartbreaking news with the public on Tuesday through a deeply personal statement on his social media channels. The announcement sent a wave of shock and sadness through the entertainment community and among fans of the long-running show, who have welcomed Escobedo into their homes for over two decades.
A Friendship Spanning Decades
In his emotional tribute, Kimmel revealed the profound depth of his relationship with Escobedo, which began long before they ever shared a Hollywood stage. Their bond was not just professional; it was a friendship that spanned 50 years.
“Early this morning, we lost a great friend, father, son, musician and man, my longtime bandleader Cleto Escobedo III,” Kimmel wrote in an Instagram post. “To say that we are heartbroken is an understatement. Cleto and I have been inseparable since I was nine years old.”
This lifelong connection was a cornerstone of their nightly collaboration. For millions of viewers, Escobedo was the charismatic leader of the show’s band, Cleto and the Cletones, providing the nightly soundtrack with infectious energy and impeccable skill. For Kimmel, it was the incredible fulfillment of a shared childhood dream.
“The fact that we got to work together every day is a dream neither of us could ever have imagined would come true,” Kimmel’s statement continued, highlighting the unique and cherished nature of their partnership.
A Fixture of Late-Night Television
Cleto and the Cletones have been the house band for “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” since its premiere in 2003. As the leader, Escobedo was more than just a musician; he was a vital part of the show’s comedic fabric, often interacting with Kimmel and celebrity guests. His musical talent and warm on-screen presence were integral to the show’s identity and rhythm, making him a familiar and comforting face for millions of viewers nightly.
At this time, no cause of death has been provided to the public. The focus from Kimmel and the show’s team remains on remembering the man who brought music and joy to so many.
Kimmel concluded his heartfelt post with a plea for his friend’s grieving family. “Cherish your friends and please keep Cleto’s wife, children and parents in your prayers,” he wrote.
This story is still developing as the entertainment world comes to terms with the loss and awaits further details, all while sharing in the grief of this significant loss.
Image Referance: https://abcnews.go.com/GMA/Culture/jimmy-kimmels-bandleader-cleto-escobedo-iii-dies/story?id=127428167