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Late-Night Bandleader Cleto Escobedo III Mourned by Colleagues
17 Nov
Summary
- Cleto Escobedo III, "Jimmy Kimmel Live" bandleader, passed away last week at 59
- Colleagues at "Last Week Tonight" and "Jimmy Kimmel Live" paid tribute to Escobedo
- Fundraisers launched to honor Escobedo's memory and support causes he cared about
The television industry is saddened by the passing of Cleto Escobedo III, the bandleader for "Jimmy Kimmel Live," who died last week at the age of 59. Escobedo's colleagues have come together to honor his memory and celebrate his life.
On Sunday night, "Last Week Tonight with John Oliver" paid tribute to Escobedo during the opening credits of the show, a gesture that reflects the tight-knit camaraderie among late-night television personalities. Kimmel himself announced Escobedo's death on Tuesday, sharing fond memories of his childhood best friend and expressing the profound grief felt by the "Jimmy Kimmel Live" team.
To further honor Escobedo's legacy, Kimmel and his show have launched two fundraisers. The first is for the UCLA Medical Center, where Escobedo received care, with the goal of supporting vulnerable patients and families in need of financial assistance. The second is for The Animal Foundation in Las Vegas, Escobedo's hometown, to honor his lifelong love for animals and provide care for pets in need.
Escobedo was a beloved figure in the entertainment industry, known for his talent as a saxophonist and singer with the Cleto and the Cletones house band. He had a long history of collaborating with artists such as Paula Abdul, Marc Anthony, and Earth, Wind & Fire's Phillip Bailey. Kimmel trusted Escobedo to lead the house band when "Jimmy Kimmel Live!" launched in 2003, a testament to the trust and respect they shared.
