The world of late night television paused on November 11 Comedian Jimmy Kimmel delivered what he called the “hardest monologue” of his nearly 23year career. Breaking down in tears the Jimmy Kimmel Live! host announced the death of his longtime bandleader and childhood best friend Cleto Escobedo III.
The news sent shockwaves through the entertainment community to highlighting a deeply personal loss that transcended the screen. Kimmel confirmed he would taking break from the late night show to mourn the loss of the musician who was 59.
This article explores the life long bond between two men the significance of Escobedo’s role on the ABC show and the emotional tribute that moved millions.
A Lifelong Friendship. From Las Vegas Neighbors to Late Night Partners
The relationship between Jimmy Kimmel and Cleto Escobedo III was rare Hollywood anomaly a decades long friendship that seamlessly transitioned into a successful professional partnership.
How Unbreakable Bond Began
Kimmel and Escobedo first met as nine year old boys in Las Vegas.
“There were thousands of houses for sale in Vegas,” Kimmel tearfully recalled in his on-air eulogy. “My parents happened to buy one that was right across the street from this kid that I would just fit together with so perfectly.”
Their friendship, which included being each other’s best man and Escobedo being the godfather to Kimmel’s son, was “inseparable” from that day forward.
Cleto’s Path to The Cletones
While Kimmel pursued comedy, Escobedo was a self-described music “child prodigy” who specialized in the Saxophone (playing alto, tenor, and soprano). His talent led to a professional musician career long before Jimmy Kimmel Live
- Toured with Major Acts. He famously present toured with artists like Paula Abdul and Earth Wind & Fire’s Phillip Bailey.
- A Family Affair.When Kimmel launched the ABC show in 2003 he insisted on hiring Escobedo and his band Cleto and the Cletones. Kimmel even lobbied to include Cleto’s father, Cleto Escobedo Jr., gifted saxophone player who had put his own career on hold to raise his son.
- This made them one of the only father son teams in late-night television detail both Cletos cherished.
The Hardest Monologue. Kimmel’s Tearful On Air Farewell
The Nov 11 broadcast became a pivotal unprepared moment in late night history. Kimmel’s nearly 20 minute long visibly difficult emotional monologue served as a profound tribute to a man who was literally by his side for over two decades.
- A Sudden Loss. Escobedo who was 59 had recently been dealing with health issues.
- The Power of Love: Kimmel shared personal, humorous stories of their youth to honor Cleto’s “nicest, most humble, kind and always funny person” nature.
- Show Must Go On (Briefly): The tribute included a touching moment with guest Eddie Murphy, whom Escobedo “loved.” Kimmel felt his friend would not have wanted them to miss the interview making the final show before the break bitter sweet.
Final Message: Kimmel concluded his eulogy with a poignant message for his audience: “Cherish your friends. We’re not here forever.”
Key Figures in the Escobedo Family
| Family Member | Role on Jimmy Kimmel Live! | Connection to Cleto |
| Cleto Escobedo III | Bandleader, Musician | The heart of Cleto and the Cletones |
| Cleto Escobedo Jr. | Saxophone Player (Band Member) | Father, co-star, and musical mentor |
| Sylvia Escobedo | Daily Audience Member | Mother, often joked about by Kimmel |
Taking Break. The Show’s Immediate Future
In the awake of this devastating loss Kimmel’s decision to suspend the show for “the next couple of nights” is necessary step for host and the entire production family.
FAQs
When did the Cleto Escobedo III die?
Cleto Escobedo III died on 11 Nov 2025 the age of 59.
What was the Cleto Escobedo III’s role on Jimmy Kimmel Live?
He was the long time squad leader for the house band Cleto,Cletones since the show premiered in 2003.
He played the alto, tenor and soprano saxophone.
Why is the Jimmy Kimmel taking break from his show?
Kimmel is taking break from the late night show to grieve the death of his childhood best friend and bandleader Cleto Escobedo III following an intensely emotional monologue.
Disclaimer:
This article is news report summarizing public statements and an emotional tribute delivered by Jimmy Kimmel on Jimmy Kimmel Live! It contains details about the personal relationship between the host and the late bandleader Cleto Escobedo III and is based on information shared in that context.