Cleto Escobedo, Beloved Band Leader of Jimmy Kimmel Live!, Dies at 59

Cleto Escobedo III, the band leader of Jimmy Kimmel Live! and a lifelong friend of host Jimmy Kimmel, passed away on November 11, 2023, at the age of 59. His cause of death has been confirmed as cardiogenic shock, with underlying health issues including alcoholic cirrhosis of the liver and other serious conditions. Escobedo’s death has left a profound impact on Kimmel and the show’s audience.

Tributes Pour In for a Beloved Musician

Kimmel, visibly emotional, dedicated a segment of his show to honor Escobedo, calling it the “hardest” tribute he has ever had to deliver. He fondly remembered their childhood friendship, sharing anecdotes that highlighted their close bond. “We were not just regular friends,” Kimmel recounted, “we were the kind of friends who spent every night at each other’s houses.” He reminisced about the summer they spent together, where he stayed at the Escobedo home for a remarkable 33 consecutive nights.

In his heartfelt monologue, Kimmel described their carefree afternoons filled with whiffle ball games and Nerf football in the streets. He also recalled their mischievous nights making prank phone calls and ordering pizzas for neighbors. “We are devastated by this news,” Kimmel expressed. “It’s just not fair. He was the nicest, most humble, kind, and always funny person.”

Following the announcement of his friend’s passing, Kimmel took to social media, posting a tribute on Instagram. He wrote, “To say that we are heartbroken is an understatement. Cleto and I have been inseparable since I was nine years old. The fact that we got to work together every day is a dream neither of us could ever have imagined would come true.” Their partnership on the show lasted nearly 23 years, a testament to their enduring friendship.

Health Issues and Legacy

According to a death certificate reportedly obtained by TMZ, Escobedo’s immediate cause of death was cardiogenic shock, with contributing conditions including chronic kidney disease, sepsis, and pneumonia. These health challenges paint a picture of the struggles he faced in recent years.

In a feature during ABC’s Hispanic Latinx Heritage Month in 2021, Escobedo referred to his role on Jimmy Kimmel Live! as the “best gig ever,” highlighting his passion for music and performance. His contributions to the show and his friendship with Kimmel will be remembered fondly by fans and colleagues alike.

As the entertainment community mourns the loss of Cleto Escobedo III, tributes continue to celebrate his life and the joy he brought to many through his music and humor. The impact he made on those around him will resonate long after his passing.