Introduction
Cleto Escobedo III spent more than two decades as the warm, steady heartbeat behind Jimmy Kimmel Live! As the show’s bandleader and longtime friend of Jimmy Kimmel, he brought music, levity, and a quietly grounding presence to late-night television.
His passing at 59 has left fans, colleagues, and the entertainment world in shock, especially as news of his death intersects with a wave of tributes flooding Hollywood. While many are searching for updates about the tragedy, the deeper story belongs to the man himself — a musician shaped by family, friendship, and a lifelong devotion to his craft.
Who Was Cleto Escobedo?
Cleto Escobedo III was an American saxophonist, arranger, and bandleader best known for leading Cleto and the Cletones on Jimmy Kimmel Live! since the show premiered in 2003. He was one of the rare figures in late-night television who kept a low profile while being central to the show’s energy, musical identity, and emotional glue.
His Connection to Jimmy Kimmel
Escobedo wasn’t just a bandleader. He was part of Kimmel’s life long before the ABC cameras ever rolled. The two grew up together in Las Vegas and remained close friends into adulthood.
Their on-screen banter became a signature part of the show — playful, understated, and deeply rooted in a real bond that spanned decades.
Recently, Hollywood has been honoring Escobedo following the breaking news of his passing, sending waves of tributes across social platforms and entertainment outlets.
Early Life & Childhood
Cleto Escobedo III was born in Las Vegas, Nevada, in 1965. Music ran through his household like a second language. His father, Cleto Escobedo Jr., was a musician himself, and the family home often echoed with rehearsals, recordings, and late-night jam sessions.
Escobedo learned saxophone at a young age, imitating the jazz and funk musicians his father admired. By high school, his talent was impossible to miss.
Family Background, Parents & Siblings
Escobedo came from a tight-knit Mexican American family deeply rooted in the Las Vegas music scene.
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Father: Cleto Escobedo Jr., musician and former member of the Cletones
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Mother: Name not publicly documented
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Siblings: Information limited, as Escobedo kept most family details private
His father often appeared on Jimmy Kimmel Live! in comedic bits, turning the Cleto-Kimmel connection into a multigenerational friendship.
Education
Escobedo attended Las Vegas High School, where he played in multiple school bands. His musical training continued after graduation as he began performing professionally in local clubs and casinos, gradually building a reputation as one of the most reliable saxophonists in the region.
Career and Musical Journey
Before his television career, Escobedo performed with various touring acts and contributed to studio sessions, honing his versatility across jazz, funk, soul, and pop.
Everything changed when Jimmy Kimmel called him in 2003 with an offer:
Come lead my show’s band.
Escobedo accepted, forming Cleto and the Cletones, the house band of Jimmy Kimmel Live!
For 21 years, he led the band with calm confidence, arranging performances, supporting musical guests, and contributing to the show’s unmistakable rhythm.
Connection to the Celebrity — A Lifelong Friendship
Cleto Escobedo wasn’t a celebrity by hunger or strategy. His fame bloomed quietly because of one thing: his authenticity.
Moments that defined his presence:
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Jimmy teasing him for being calm under pressure
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Cleto’s rare but memorable on-camera reactions
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His father showing up for comedic cameos
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His steady musical direction during big episodes and special events
When Jimmy Kimmel recently confirmed the heartbreaking news of Escobedo’s death, it sent a shock across Hollywood, especially among musicians and late-night performers who had worked with him for decades.
Cause of Death
As of the latest updates, Escobedo’s cause of death has not been publicly disclosed. Statements from the show and his family describe his passing as sudden and unexpected. Outlets covering his death are asking for privacy and respect while the family grieves.
Personal Life & Relationships
Escobedo kept his personal life remarkably private for someone on national television. He was known among colleagues for being gentle, soft-spoken, and deeply loyal to longtime friends and collaborators.
Public information about partners or relationships remains limited, reflecting his preference to keep his off-screen life separate from the Hollywood spotlight.
Net Worth
At the time of his passing, Cleto Escobedo III’s estimated net worth ranged between $1 million and $3 million, earned through:
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His 21-year tenure on Jimmy Kimmel Live!
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Live performances
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Music arrangements
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Touring and studio contributions
Interesting Facts
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He met Jimmy Kimmel in junior high school, marking a friendship of more than 40 years.
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His father, Cleto Jr., became a fan favorite through recurring bits on the show.
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Escobedo played multiple instruments but was best known for the saxophone.
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He performed with various touring acts before settling into late-night TV.
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He was one of the longest-serving bandleaders in modern late-night history.
Recent News & Updates
Escobedo’s death has become a trending topic across major entertainment news outlets. Jimmy Kimmel, ABC executives, and musicians from across the industry have released statements honoring his legacy.
Tributes continue to pour in as fans revisit classic moments from the show featuring Escobedo’s warmth and musical precision.
Conclusion
Cleto Escobedo III didn’t chase the spotlight — he strengthened every spotlight he stood near.
He was a musician first, a loyal friend always, and a quiet force in late-night television whose influence stretched far beyond the notes he played.
His passing leaves an empty space not just on a stage, but in the hearts of everyone who understood the magic of having him there.
FAQ
What was Cleto Escobedo’s cause of death?
His cause of death has not been publicly released as of the latest updates.
How did Cleto Escobedo know Jimmy Kimmel?
They met in junior high school in Las Vegas and remained lifelong friends.
How long was Cleto on Jimmy Kimmel Live!?
He served as bandleader for more than 21 years, from the show’s launch in 2003.
Was Cleto Escobedo married?
He kept his personal life private; no confirmed public partner details are available.
What was Cleto Escobedo’s net worth?
His estimated net worth was between $1 million and $3 million.
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