Cleto Escobedo III, the beloved leader of Cleto and the Cletones, the house band for “Jimmy Kimmel Live!”, has passed away at the age of 59. His longtime friend and host, Jimmy Kimmel, shared the heartbreaking news on Instagram, stating, “Early this morning, we lost a great friend, father, son, musician, and man.” Kimmel expressed the deep bond he shared with Escobedo, recalling how they had been inseparable since childhood.
Kimmel reminisced about their early days together, noting the joy of working with Escobedo throughout their careers, which he described as a dream they never anticipated would come true. He urged fans to cherish their loved ones and keep Escobedo’s family in their thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
The announcement of Escobedo’s passing comes shortly after Kimmel’s show was postponed due to a personal matter. Escobedo had been a significant presence on “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” since its inception in 2003, with his father, Cleto Escobado Sr., also part of the band, enriching the show with their musical legacy.
In a heartfelt tribute made during a segment for Escobedo’s 50th birthday in 2016, Kimmel shared childhood anecdotes, including amusing tales of their early mischiefs, showcasing the fun and spontaneous spirit that characterized their friendship. Kimmel described Cleto as a “child prodigy” who not only left a mark on their hometown but also toured with iconic acts like Earth, Wind & Fire and Paula Abdul before joining Kimmel’s show. The chemistry between Kimmel and Escobedo stood out as they created memorable music and moments together on stage, underscoring a lifelong friendship and partnership that will be cherished by many.
As the entertainment community mourns the loss of Cleto Escobedo III, his contribution to music and the joy he brought to fans will undoubtedly be remembered fondly. Kimmel’s heartfelt words resonate with those who appreciated not just Escobedo’s musical talents, but the enduring friendship they shared. This connection between them serves as a reminder of the profound impact of friendship, music, and shared experiences.