On Tuesday morning, the entertainment world mourned the loss of Cleto Escobedo III, the beloved bandleader of Cleto and the Cletones, known for his long-standing role on Jimmy Kimmel Live!. Jimmy Kimmel himself announced the news on social media, sharing heartfelt sentiments about his cherished friend and collaborator.
In an emotional Instagram post, Kimmel expressed his grief, stating, “Early this morning, we lost a great friend, father, son, musician, and man, my longtime bandleader Cleto Escobedo III.” He described the profound bond they shared, emphasizing that they had been inseparable since he was just nine years old. Kimmel reflected on their unique journey, saying, “The fact that we got to work together every day is a dream neither of us could ever have imagined would come true.” He urged his followers to cherish their friendships and to keep Cleto’s family in their prayers during this difficult time.
Jimmy Kimmel and Cleto Escobedo’s friendship dates back to 1977, when Kimmel moved to Las Vegas and met Escobedo, who lived next door. This connection blossomed into a lifelong partnership that would eventually lead to Escobedo becoming the bandleader on Kimmel's late-night show. In a segment celebrating Escobedo's 50th birthday in 2016, Kimmel shared nostalgic photos and stories about their youthful adventures, illustrating the depth of their relationship.
In a revealing 2021 interview on Jimmy Kimmel Live!, Escobedo recounted his journey to becoming the bandleader of the show. He recalled receiving a pivotal phone call from Kimmel while he was in Atlanta, where Kimmel extended the invitation to join him in his new endeavor. “Of course I was like 'Yes.' It’s been the best gig ever,” Escobedo noted, highlighting his excitement and passion for the role he cherished.
Cleto Escobedo III’s impact on the world of music and television will not be forgotten. His vibrant personality and musical talents brought joy to audiences and enriched the Jimmy Kimmel Live! experience for many years. As fans and colleagues remember him, they celebrate not only his contributions to entertainment but also the warmth he brought to his relationships. ABC News has reached out to a representative for Kimmel for further comments regarding this tragic loss.
