Jimmy Kimmel’s lifelong friend and bandleader Cleto Escobedo III has passed away at 59. While no official cause of death is confirmed, reports suggest complications from a liver transplant.
Cleto Escobedo III: Revered House Band Leader on Jimmy Kimmel Live! and Lifelong Friend to Jimmy Kimmel
In an emotional announcement on November 11, 2025, talk-show host Jimmy Kimmel revealed that his longtime bandleader and childhood friend, Cleto Escobedo III, had passed away at the age of 59. The news has prompted an outpouring of grief from the entertainment industry and fans alike.
What We Know About the Cause of Death of Cleto Escobedo
Cleto Escobedo Cause of Death: What the Reports Say
While the official cause of death has not been publicly confirmed, multiple media outlets report that Escobedo’s passing may have been related to complications from a liver transplant. Other sources state that his cause of death remains undisclosed, leaving fans and colleagues awaiting additional information.
A Life of Music and Friendship: The Journey of Cleto Escobedo
From Las Vegas Streets to Late-Night TV
Cleto Escobedo grew up in Las Vegas across the street from Jimmy Kimmel. Their friendship began when they were children and later evolved into a professional partnership when Kimmel launched his late-night show in 2003 and chose Escobedo to lead the house band, Cleto and the Cletones.
Musical Career Highlights
Escobedo was a skilled saxophonist and toured with big-name artists such as Paula Abdul and Marc Anthony before becoming an integral part of late-night television. His warmth and musical chops made him a beloved figure both on and off screen.
The Impact of Cleto Escobedo’s Death on TV and Music
Jimmy Kimmel’s Emotional Tribute
On November 11, Jimmy Kimmel broke down in tears during a monologue on Jimmy Kimmel Live!, calling the loss of Escobedo “the hardest” of all the moments he’s faced. He asked the audience to “cherish your friends” and to keep Escobedo’s family in their prayers.
Industry and Fan Reactions
Musician Sheila E. also paid a touching tribute, recounting how she produced Escobedo’s first record in the ’90s and describing him as “a true brother.”
Why the Cause of Death of Cleto Escobedo Matters
The ambiguity surrounding the cause of death highlights the complexities of health issues in high-pressure careers such as live entertainment. Whether the liver transplant report proves accurate or is clarified further, the key takeaway remains: the sudden loss of a creative force like Escobedo underscores the fragility behind the spotlight.
