Who was Cleto Escobedo III?
Born August 23, 1966 in Las Vegas, Nevada, Cleto Escobedo III began his musical journey early, learning saxophone and eventually touring with artists like Paula Abdul and Marc Anthony.
In 2003, when Jimmy Kimmel launched his late-night show, Escobedo became bandleader of “Cleto and the Cletones”, the house band that appeared nightly.
He and Kimmel were childhood friends—they grew up across the street from each other in Las Vegas and stayed close for decades.
What happened to Cleto Escobedo III?
On November 11, 2025, Cleto Escobedo III died at age 59. The announcement was made by Jimmy Kimmel, who described Escobedo as “a great friend, father, son, musician and man.”
A cause of death has not been publicly confirmed. Some reports mention health complications following a liver transplant, but official confirmation is absent.
Kimmel opened his show with an emotional tribute and canceled a recent episode citing personal reasons tied to the loss.
Why his life and career mattered
- Musical impact: As bandleader for nearly 22 years on a major late-night show, Escobedo was part of the nightly rhythm of U.S. late-night television and music.
- Personal story of friendship: The bond between Escobedo and Kimmel—from childhood to nightly collaborators—offers a rare human dimension in show business.
- Representation: His career charts the path of a working musician who blended touring life with television, held family values, and remained rooted in his craft.
- Legacy: His father also played in the band—creating a father-son musical link on television.
Key moments in his journey
- 1980s-90s: Started performing in Las Vegas; became touring saxophonist for major pop stars.
- 2003: Joined Jimmy Kimmel’s show as bandleader.
- 2022: In interviews, Escobedo spoke about the importance of family and stability over perpetual touring.
- Nov 11 2025: Passed away at age 59—news announced on Jimmy Kimmel’s show and social media.
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What to watch now
- Tributes and memories: Expect more in future broadcasts of Kimmel’s show and in music-industry press.
- Band evolution: With Escobedo gone, there will likely be changes in “Cleto and the Cletones” and how the show handles its music segment.
- Impact on late-night music culture: His passing might open discussions about behind-the-scenes bandleaders, TV house-bands and musicians in late-night shows.
- Archival reflection: Interviews and recordings where Escobedo spoke candidly about his career, music and friendship with Kimmel may become more broadly referenced.
FAQs on Cleto Escobedo III
Q: How old was Cleto Escobedo III when he died?
A: He was 59 years old.
Q: What show did he lead the band for?
A: The show was “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” on ABC. He led the house band “Cleto and the Cletones”.
Q: Were he and Jimmy Kimmel close?
A: Yes—they were childhood friends who grew up in Las Vegas and remained close into adulthood and work.
Q: Why is his death significant?
A: Because he was a long-standing collaborator in a major TV show, a respected musician, and part of a rare father-son band story on television. His passing marks the end of an era for that show’s music segment.
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