Cleto Escobedo III, the band leader for Jimmy Kimmel Live!, passed away on November 11, 2023, at the age of 59. The news has sent shockwaves through the entertainment community, prompting an outpouring of condolences for both Escobedo and his longtime friend, host Jimmy Kimmel. The cause of death has been confirmed as cardiogenic shock, with additional health issues cited in his death certificate.
Kimmel paid tribute to Escobedo during the November 11 episode of his show, describing the moment as the “hardest” he has ever had to face in his career. In an emotional monologue, Kimmel shared memories of their childhood, highlighting the deep bond they formed over the years. “We became not just regular friends, but the 24/7, ‘Mom, please let me sleep over’ kind of friends,” Kimmel recalled. He noted that one summer, he spent 33 consecutive nights at the Escobedo home, engaging in activities such as whiffle ball games and late-night prank calls.
The heartfelt tribute continued as Kimmel expressed his devastation over the loss. “It’s just not fair. He was the nicest, most humble, kind, and always funny person,” Kimmel said, visibly emotional. Following the announcement of Escobedo’s passing, Kimmel took to Instagram, sharing his heartbreak and reflecting on their nearly 23 years of working together. “To say that we are heartbroken is an understatement,” he wrote. “The fact that we got to work together every day is a dream neither of us could ever have imagined would come true.”
According to reports by TMZ, Escobedo’s death certificate outlines a number of serious health conditions contributing to his death. The immediate cause was identified as cardiogenic shock, with underlying issues including vasodilatory shock, disseminated intravascular coagulation, and alcoholic cirrhosis of the liver. Additional contributing factors noted were chronic kidney disease, immunosuppression, sepsis, and pneumonia.
In a feature during ABC’s Hispanic Latinx Heritage Month in 2021, Escobedo expressed his appreciation for his role on Jimmy Kimmel Live!, calling it the “best gig ever.” His contributions to the show and the music community will be remembered fondly.
As tributes continue to pour in, Kimmel’s heartfelt words resonate with many who knew Escobedo. “We are devastated by [the news of his death],” Kimmel stated, capturing the profound loss felt by both friends and fans alike.
