Jimmy Kimmel Returns to Show After Mourning the Loss of Bandleader Cleto Escobedo III

Jimmy Kimmel made his emotional return to “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” on Monday, November 17, after taking time off to mourn the death of his childhood friend and longtime bandleader, Cleto Escobedo III. The show resumed with a noticeable change as the house band, previously known as “Cleto and the Cletones,” was simply billed as “The Cletones” in the opening credits—a subtle but powerful acknowledgment of the void left by Escobedo’s absence. Kimmel welcomed guests Samuel L. Jackson and comedian Ms. Pat as the show attempted to find its footing again following this profound loss. The return marked a pivotal moment for the program, which had paused after Kimmel delivered a heart-wrenching tribute to Escobedo on November 11, the day of his passing at age 59. According to the death certificate later obtained by TMZ, Escobedo died from cardiogenic shock, with underlying causes including vasodilatory shock, disseminated intravascular coagulation, and alcoholic cirrhosis of the liver—medical terms that hardly capture the human loss felt by those who knew and loved him.

The bond between Kimmel and Escobedo stretched back to their childhood, making the loss particularly devastating for the 58-year-old host. During his emotional November 11 monologue, Kimmel fought back tears as he reflected on their friendship, saying, “I’ve had to do some hard monologues, but this one’s the hardest, because late last night, early this morning, we lost someone very special who was much too young to go.” The depth of their connection was evident as Kimmel shared personal memories, revealing how Escobedo had been the bandleader since the show’s premiere in January 2023. What made their professional relationship even more special was the fact that Escobedo’s father, Cleto Escobedo Sr., was also part of the band—creating a family atmosphere that extended beyond the stage. This wasn’t just a case of a host and his bandleader; this was a friendship that had weathered nearly five decades, beginning when they were just children with no idea of what their futures held.

Kimmel recalled his anxiety about asking Escobedo to lead his band when the show was first being developed. “I wanted Cleto to lead my band… The idea that anyone other than him would lead the band was terrifying. It had to be him,” Kimmel explained through his grief. “I was so scared they would say no and I would have to have another band. I had to work up the nerve to bring it up. Because I knew [saying], ‘My best friend from growing up plays the saxophone, he could lead the band,’ wasn’t a great pitch.” This vulnerability offered viewers a glimpse into the personal stakes involved for Kimmel—how the show’s success was intertwined with his desire to work alongside his closest friend. The fact that ABC executives quickly approved hiring both Escobedo and his father speaks to the obvious chemistry and talent they brought to the table, a decision that would define the show’s musical identity for over two decades.

What made the arrangement even more special for Kimmel was the opportunity it provided for Cleto Escobedo Sr. “I’ve always said the single best thing about doing this show was getting the opportunity to allow Cleto Sr. to pick up where he left off in 1966 and become a musician again, with his son,” Kimmel shared. This sentiment reveals how the professional collaboration was about more than just creating entertainment—it was about creating opportunities for people Kimmel deeply cared about. The host went on to describe how the Escobedo family had essentially become his second family: “Cleto Sr. and his mom, Sylvia, have been like my second parents since I was in the 4th grade. I’ve known them 47 years and these people have never once yelled at me. Not one time. They are the best people.” This revelation transformed what might have been seen as merely a professional loss into something much more personal—the loss of someone who was practically family.

The emotional weight of Escobedo’s passing was unmistakable in Kimmel’s words as he continued his tribute, saying simply, “It’s just not fair.” This raw expression of grief resonated with audiences who have experienced similar losses, transcending the typical boundaries of late-night television. Kimmel further remembered his friend as “the nicest, most humble, kind and always funny person,” painting a picture of a man whose character extended far beyond his musical talents. These qualities—kindness, humility, humor—speak to why Escobedo was not only a valued bandleader but a beloved presence both on and off camera. His impact clearly went beyond the notes he played; he was integral to the show’s warm atmosphere and success over its long run.

Earlier on the day of Escobedo’s passing, Kimmel had taken to Instagram to announce the devastating news to the world. “Early this morning, we lost a great friend, father, son, musician and man, my longtime bandleader Cleto Escobedo III,” he wrote. “To say that we are heartbroken is an understatement. Cleto and I have been inseparable since I was nine years old. The fact that we got to work together every day is a dream neither of us could ever have imagined would come true.” This statement encapsulates the extraordinary nature of their journey—from childhood friends to professional collaborators on one of television’s biggest stages. Kimmel’s final words in the post—”Cherish your friends and please keep Cleto’s wife, children and parents in your prayers”—served both as a tribute to his friend and a reminder to audiences of the fragility of life and the importance of valuing our closest relationships. As “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” moves forward, the absence of Escobedo will be felt not just in the music but in the very heart of the show, which was built on a foundation of genuine friendship that began long before the cameras ever started rolling.