What happened to Cleto Escobedo III?

Cleto Escobedo III, the longtime bandleader and saxophonist for the Jimmy Kimmel Live show, passed away at the age of 59.

How did Cleto Escobedo III and Jimmy Kimmel know each other?

Cleto Escobedo III and Jimmy Kimmel were lifelong best friends since they were children growing up as neighbors in Las Vegas in 1977.

What was Cleto Escobedo III's role on the Jimmy Kimmel Live show?

Cleto Escobedo III was the bandleader and saxophonist for the Jimmy Kimmel Live show, a position he had held since the show's inception in 2003.

Home / Arts and Entertainment / Beloved Jimmy Kimmel Live Bandleader Cleto Escobedo III Passes Away at 59

Beloved Jimmy Kimmel Live Bandleader Cleto Escobedo III Passes Away at 59

12 Nov, 2025

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Summary

Cleto Escobedo III, bandleader and saxophonist for Jimmy Kimmel Live, dies at 59
Escobedo and Kimmel were lifelong best friends since childhood
Escobedo was a "phenomenal" saxophonist and child prodigy

Beloved Jimmy Kimmel Live Bandleader Cleto Escobedo III Passes Away at 59

In a heartbreaking loss for the entertainment industry, Cleto Escobedo III, the longtime bandleader and saxophonist for Jimmy Kimmel Live, has passed away at the age of 59. Kimmel, who was Escobedo's best friend since they were children growing up in Las Vegas, delivered a tearful farewell to his longtime collaborator and closest confidant.

Escobedo and Kimmel's friendship dated back to 1977 when Kimmel's family moved to Las Vegas and they became neighbors. The two were inseparable, enjoying countless shared experiences and adventures over the years. Escobedo was described as a "phenomenal" saxophonist who was a child prodigy, earning standing ovations in junior high school.