Late night television has lost one of its most recognisable sounds. Cleto Escobedo III, the charismatic bandleader of Jimmy Kimmel Live!, has died at the age of 59, as confirmed by host Jimmy Kimmel on social media earlier today.
Kimmel shared a heartfelt message on Instagram announcing the loss of his lifelong friend and musical collaborator, writing:
‘Early this morning, we lost a great friend, father, son, musician and man, my long-time bandleader Cleto Escobedo III. To say that we are heartbroken is an understatement. Cleto and I have been inseparable since I was nine years old.’
The pair’s friendship stretched back decades, with Escobedo leading Cleto and the Cletones since Jimmy Kimmel Live! first hit screens in 2003. Beyond his role as bandleader, Escobedo was a vital part of the show’s spirit, the cool, ever present heartbeat behind the comedy and mayhem of late night television.
In the post, Kimmel reflected on their bond:
‘The fact that we got to work together every day is a dream neither of us could ever have imagined would come true. Cherish your friends and please keep Cleto’s wife, children and parents in your prayers.’
Their shared history began in Las Vegas in 1977, when a young Kimmel moved in next door to Escobedo’s family. Over the years, their friendship turned into a creative partnership that spanned four decades.
In a 2021 interview with Guillermo from Jimmy Kimmel Live!, Escobedo recalled the moment Kimmel invited him to join the show:
‘I think I was in Atlanta, and Jimmy called and said “Hey man, I think I’m gonna have this show. Do you wanna be my bandleader?” Of course I was like “Yes.” It’s been the best gig ever.’
No cause of death has been released, Escobedo is survived by his wife, children, and parents, and remembered by millions who tuned in nightly to hear his music light up late night TV.
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