Jimmy Kimmel Mourns Beloved Bandleader Cleto Escobedo III: ‘Our Hearts Are Broken’

Jimmy Kimmel recently paid heartfelt tribute to his childhood friend Cleto Escobedo III during an episode of “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” Cleto, who was also the show’s bandleader, sadly passed away at just 59.

Kimmel opened the show visibly emotional. “This is the hardest monologue I’ve had to do,” he said. He shared memories of their deep friendship, often illustrated with childhood photos that captured their time growing up in Las Vegas. Cleto’s family was in attendance, clearly moved by the tribute.

Kimmel recalled how they became inseparable. “He lived across the street and two houses over. We were constant companions. I spent 33 nights in a row at his house one summer,” he reminisced. Their bond was evident even at a young age, filled with adventures and mischief.

Kimmel brought Cleto onto the show as his bandleader when “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” started in 2003. Despite initial doubts about their friendship being a good pitch, Cleto and his father wowed the audition panel. “They played ‘Pick Up the Pieces’ by the Average White Band, and that was it,” Kimmel said, reflecting on their almost 23 years of working together.

Cleto was described by Kimmel as “the nicest, most humble, and funny person.” The loss has left a significant void, and Kimmel chose to take a few nights off from filming as a tribute to his friend.

Just days before, Kimmel had to cancel an episode to support Cleto, whose condition had worsened. He shared the news of Cleto’s death on Instagram, emphasizing their bond and asking fans to keep Cleto’s family in their thoughts.

This week’s episodes were themed around the 80s. Though Kimmel has taken time off before, like when his son Billy underwent serious medical treatment, this loss was personal and profound.

Kimmel’s tribute resonated with fans, highlighting how friendships can shape our lives and the lasting impact they leave behind. The show’s tribute serves as a reminder of the importance of cherishing those we hold dear.

For more details on Cleto’s life and Kimmel’s tribute, you can check out this Instagram post.

In a 2022 survey by the Pew Research Center, 40% of adults reported feeling more emotionally connected to friends than to their families, highlighting how vital friendships can be in our lives. This loss resonates on a larger scale, reminding us all of the importance of maintaining and nurturing our own friendships.

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