Introduction
On November 11, 2025, the music industry was shaken by the news of Cleto Escobedo III's passing, announced by the beloved late-night host Jimmy Kimmel. At just 59 years old, Cleto was not only a skilled musician but also a cherished friend whose life intertwined beautifully with the fabric of late-night television.
The Friendship that Lasted a Lifetime
Jimmy Kimmel's heartfelt tribute on Instagram encapsulated their profound bond: "To say that we are heartbroken is an understatement." The duo forged their friendship during childhood in Las Vegas, where they quickly became inseparable, bonding over a shared love of music and humor. Kimmel reminisced about their early years, reflecting on how they met as kids and instantly clicked.
"We just met one day on the street... and we just became pals, and we've been pals ever since," Escobedo shared in a 2022 interview, recalling the simplicity of childhood friendships that transcended into a lifelong partnership.
A Musical Journey
Cleto Escobedo developed his musicianship primarily through the saxophone, carving a professional path that included tours with iconic artists such as Earth, Wind & Fire's Phillip Bailey and Paula Abdul. His musical flexibility allowed him to collaborate with talents like Marc Anthony and Tom Scott, enriching the soundscape of contemporary music.
When Kimmel landed the gig for his ABC talk show in 2003, it was a no-brainer to have Cleto as his bandleader. Kimmel emphasized the essential chemistry they shared. "Of course I wanted great musicians, but I wanted somebody I had chemistry with. And there's nobody in my life I have better chemistry with than him," he told WABC in 2015.
Memories and Tributes
Memories of fun and laughter flowed as Kimmel dedicated segments to their antics, like pranking with a BB gun or joyriding in a bicycle sidecar that inevitably crashed into garbage cans. Such moments reveal not only their playful spirits but also the deeper emotional connection they nurtured over decades.
- Escobedo's father, also part of the Kimmel band, highlights the strong family ties embedded in their musical journey.
- The father-son duo celebrated nearly two decades of performing together, showcasing the importance of family in Cleto's life and career.
- In a candid 2022 interview, he reflected on the importance of balancing family life with a career in music, stating, "Touring... is not really conducive for family life." This insight shows his dedication to both his profession and his loved ones.
Final Thoughts
The abrupt cancellation of the recent "Jimmy Kimmel Live!" episode serves as a stark reminder of how sudden loss can affect those we least expect. The date and cause of Escobedo's death remain undisclosed, but the outpouring of love and remembrance offers a glimpse into the loving legacy he leaves behind.
As we reflect on Cleto's life, let us cherish not just his musical talent, but also the way he embodied friendship, laughter, and family. His journey is a poignant reminder that the connections we forge—not just through music but through shared experiences—are what truly define our lives. Let us keep his family in our thoughts, honoring a man whose life was a symphony of friendship and creativity.
Conclusion
As a culture critic, it's vital for me to highlight how entertainers like Cleto Escobedo III shape our understanding of culture and friendship. He was more than just a bandleader; he was a part of our late-night lives, proving that music has a way of connecting us all.
Source reference: https://www.cbsnews.com/news/cleto-escobedo-iii-jimmy-kimmel-bandleader-dies-59/
