The world of late-night television is mourning the loss of Cleto Escobedo III, the beloved bandleader ofJimmy Kimmel Live!, who passed away at the age of 59.
Jimmy Kimmel announced the heartbreaking news with a deeply personal message, revealing that Escobedo wasn’t just a colleague, but his best friend since childhood.
“Early this morning, we lost a great friend, father, son, musician and man, my longtime bandleader Cleto Escobedo III,” Kimmel shared, his words echoing the profound sense of loss felt by those who knew him.
Their bond stretched back to the age of nine, a friendship forged in shared adventures and unwavering loyalty. Kimmel expressed disbelief that their childhood dream of working together daily had actually come true.
For over two decades, Escobedo and his band, Cleto and the Cletones, infusedJimmy Kimmel Live!with their signature blend of funk, jazz, and soul, becoming an integral part of the show’s identity since its 2003 debut.
The music wasn’t just background noise; it was the heartbeat of the program, a vibrant energy that resonated with viewers night after night.
The musical legacy ran in the family, as Cleto’s father, Cleto Escobedo Sr., also proudly performed alongside his son on the show, creating a unique and heartwarming dynamic.
Kimmel once shared a glimpse into their early years, recalling a ramshackle sidecar bike they affectionately called “the side hack.” Escobedo, with mischievous glee, would steer it directly into bushes and garbage cans, much to Kimmel’s playful frustration.
Their childhood was filled with playful antics – afternoons spent with a BB gun, playfully targeting each other, and a daring, albeit ill-advised, attempt to shoot down kites with his father’s shotgun.
One particularly memorable story revealed Escobedo’s playful spirit: as teenagers, he’d secretly slip out of his pants in the backseat of Kimmel’s mother’s car, mooning unsuspecting pedestrians and sending the entire carload into fits of laughter.
The cause of his death remains unknown, but the outpouring of grief speaks volumes about the impact he had on those around him.
Cleto Escobedo III leaves behind a legacy of music, laughter, and a friendship that defined a lifetime.
