Jimmy Kimmel’s voice trembled with pain that didn’t require a script when he took the stage after losing Cleto Escobedo III. His lifelong friend, bandleader, and creative collaborator, the man behind the saxophone, had died at the age of 59. His passing was an emotional turning point for Kimmel and the millions of people who had become used to seeing the two together. What started out as a childhood friendship in Las Vegas decades ago developed into one of the most charming partnerships on late-night television.
Cleto wasn’t just a part of Jimmy Kimmel Live!; he was the show’s heartbeat, its rhythm, and the source of its interludes of laughter. Their relationship was remarkably similar to that of family; it was forged not only via music but also through years of unspoken understanding and shared dreams. At one point, Kimmel said of Cleto, “the person I’ve had the best chemistry with in my life,” which perfectly captured their uncommon, enduring friendship.
When a young Jimmy Kimmel moved to Las Vegas in 1977, he met Cleto Escobedo, the boy who lived across the street. This is how their story started. They were both ambitious, mischievous, and full of big dreams that were out of proportion to their peaceful neighborhood. Even though they parted ways as adults, they remained in touch. While Kimmel established himself in comedy and television, Cleto developed into a remarkably talented saxophonist who toured with celebrities like Paula Abdul and Marc Anthony. When Kimmel was offered his own show years later, he only called one person: his childhood friend. “Want to lead my band?” he inquired. Cleto didn’t think twice.
Cleto Escobedo III – Personal and Professional Information
| Category | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Cleto Valentine Escobedo III |
| Date of Birth | August 23, 1966 |
| Place of Birth | Las Vegas, Nevada, USA |
| Date of Death | November 11, 2025 |
| Age | 59 years |
| Profession | Musician, Saxophonist, Bandleader |
| Known For | Leader of Cleto and the Cletones on Jimmy Kimmel Live! |
| Associated Acts | Paula Abdul, Marc Anthony, Earth, Wind & Fire |
| Years Active | 1980s–2025 |
| Family | Son of Cleto Escobedo Jr., survived by wife, children, and parents |
| Reference | www.nytimes.com/2025/11/11/arts/cleto-escobedo-iii.html |
That choice worked remarkably well. Cleto and the Cletones quickly established themselves as a mainstay when Jimmy Kimmel Live! debuted in 2003. Their sound combined the laid-back humor that complemented Kimmel’s style with the vigor of Las Vegas jazz. The bond between host and bandleader was immediately apparent to viewers; it wasn’t staged or manufactured; rather, it was genuine. Cleto’s effortless humor and musical genius significantly enhanced the warmth he brought to late-night television.
Cleto exuded confidence behind his saxophone, but he never came across as cocky. His humility was disarming, but his performances were expressive. Although he had performed for world-renowned figures, the nightly companionship of performing with Kimmel was what brought him the most joy. He once referred to the performance as “the best gig ever,” expressing his gratitude for getting to perform on stage with a friend he had known since he was a young boy. In a field that is frequently fueled by short-lived celebrity, that loyalty came to represent authenticity.
Audiences were moved to tears by Kimmel’s heartfelt homage following Cleto’s passing. “We’ve been on the air for 23 years, and this is the hardest monologue I’ve ever had to do,” he said, fighting back tears. One could feel the grief. He reflected on their early years as two children who played tricks, broke into performances, and hoped to make people laugh and dance. Both of them had experienced the unlikely realization of that innocent dream.
The impact of Cleto extended well beyond late-night television. As a mentor, he frequently advised aspiring musicians to “find their groove and stay honest.” Audiences loved the unique father-son dynamic that his father, Cleto Escobedo Jr., shared with the band. It was a family performing for millions of people every night, not just a musical group. One of the most touching scenes on television was when Cleto and his father shared the stage together; it served as a living reminder of tradition, fervor, and continuity.
Cleto had a very varied career prior to joining Kimmel. Although he had collaborated with renowned producers and performed with Earth, Wind & Fire, he felt most at home on Jimmy Kimmel Live!. He created a timeless yet contemporary sound for the show by fusing jazz, funk, and soul. Audiences adored his charisma, and musicians respected his technical accuracy. His music influenced the entire show’s ambiance and wasn’t merely background noise.
Tributes from all over the entertainment industry flooded in after the news of Cleto’s passing broke. He was “pure light and soul, both on and off stage,” according to Paula Abdul. He was referred to as “a brother in rhythm” by Sheila E. His smooth solos and playful smiles were shared by fans, who recalled how he brought life to even brief interludes. Because Cleto was more than just a member of the band, he served as the show’s emotional fulcrum, so the loss struck a deep chord.
Kimmel’s statement, “Cherish your friends,” encapsulated how many people felt. Since I was nine years old, Cleto and I have been inseparable. It was a dream come true that we were able to collaborate every day. As he said it, his voice broke, demonstrating how deeply they loved and were grateful for one another. Such sincere affection between coworkers is uncommon in the entertainment industry. Their friendship was based on respect, laughter, and a shared past rather than on contracts or ease.
In an industry characterized by rapid change, the strength of that relationship is especially encouraging. Comedy and rivalry are the lifeblood of late-night television, but Kimmel and Cleto contributed something more timeless: sincerity. Their collaboration effectively combined improvisation and authenticity while bridging the gap between comedy and music. As a result, regardless of how long it ran, the show never felt robotic.
Although Kimmel declined to provide further details in public, reports indicated that Cleto’s death followed complications from a liver transplant. Rather, he concentrated on honoring his friend’s legacy—a man who lived a happy life, loved deeply, and, just by being himself, made other people feel good. After his death, the show went dark for a few days, which was a very touching gesture from a network production. The bandstand was more empty when it came back, but his spirit was still in the music.
