Jimmy Kimmel’s beloved band leader Cleto Escobedo III dies at 59: Heartbreaking cause revealed

The entertainment world is mourning the loss of Cleto Escobedo III, the charismatic bandleader of Cleto and the Cletones, who passed away on November 11 at the age of 59. According to his death certificate obtained by TMZ, Escobedo’s immediate cause of death was cardiogenic shock, a rare but severe condition in which the heart suddenly fails to pump enough blood to sustain the body. Underlying health issues listed included vasodilatory shock, alcoholic cirrhosis of the liver, and disseminated intravascular coagulation. Additional contributing factors noted were sepsis, chronic kidney disease, pneumonia, graft-versus-host disease, and an immunocompromised state.

Cardiogenic shock is often linked to major heart attacks, but the Mayo Clinic emphasizes that it can develop in other circumstances, making it a complex and life-threatening medical emergency.

Escobedo’s passing was confirmed by his lifelong friend, Jimmy Kimmel, who shared the news via Instagram. “To say that we are heartbroken is an understatement,” Kimmel wrote. “Cleto and I have been inseparable since I was nine years old. Working alongside him every day on the show has been a dream come true. Cherish your friends and keep his family in your thoughts and prayers.”

The musician had been a fixture on Jimmy Kimmel Live! since the show’s debut in 2003, leading the house band that became an integral part of the program’s identity. His influence and presence were felt beyond the late-night stage; Kimmel often referred to him as not just a bandleader, but a creative partner and a dear friend whose talent shaped the show’s musical backbone.

In an emotional tribute during the November 11 episode, Kimmel admitted, “Everyone loves Cleto… we are devastated. It’s just not fair.” He also canceled subsequent tapings on November 12 and 13 in honor of Escobedo.

Escobedo’s musical journey began long before his tenure on the talk show. Recognized as a child prodigy, he toured with renowned acts like Earth, Wind & Fire and Paula Abdul and even secured his own record deal. Kimmel previously described him as a “must-have” for the show due to their unparalleled chemistry. His father, Cleto Escobedo Sr., a musician who played saxophones on Jimmy Kimmel Live!, also appeared with the band for the November 11 taping, highlighting the family’s deep musical legacy.

Reflecting on his career, Escobedo once shared in a 2021 ABC feature that leading the band was “the best gig ever.” He credited his father’s sacrifices for inspiring his musical journey, recounting how his dad gave up life on the road to be present for him, working decades as a busboy while nurturing a family legacy in music.

Escobedo’s death has left an irreplaceable void in the late-night music scene. His warmth, talent, and dedication will be remembered by colleagues, fans, and family alike. He is survived by his wife, children, and parents.

FAQ

Q: What was the cause of Cleto Escobedo III’s death?
A: The immediate cause was cardiogenic shock, with underlying conditions including alcoholic cirrhosis of the liver, vasodilatory shock, and disseminated intravascular coagulation.

Q: How old was Cleto Escobedo III when he died?
A: He was 59 years old.

Q: What band did Cleto lead?
A: He led Cleto and the Cletones, the house band for Jimmy Kimmel Live!.

Q: How long had Cleto been working with Jimmy Kimmel?
A: Since the show’s premiere in 2003.

Q: What other notable musicians did Cleto work with?
A: He toured with Earth, Wind & Fire, Paula Abdul, and had his own record deal prior to joining Jimmy Kimmel Live!.