How will you remember Cleto Escobedo III's role on Jimmy Kimmel Live?
Cleto Escobedo III, Jimmy Kimmel's Bandleader and Friend, Dies at 59
Cleto Escobedo III, the longtime bandleader of 'Jimmy Kimmel Live!' and lifelong friend of host Jimmy Kimmel, passed away on November 11, 2025, at the age of 59. Known for leading 'Cleto and the Cletones' since the show's debut in 2003, Escobedo played a central role in shaping the musical identity of late-night TV for over two decades. Before his television career, he toured with artists like Paula Abdul and Marc Anthony and was considered a prodigious saxophonist. His death has prompted an outpouring of tributes from fans and musicians alike. Escobedo’s on-air rapport with Kimmel, paired with his exceptional musicianship, made him a beloved figure among viewers. As fans mourn his loss, this poll asks how audiences will remember Cleto's legacy on the show and in the broader music world.
Options
- A talented bandleader and friend — unforgettable
- A great musician who made late-night TV fun
- Underrated — more people should’ve known him
- Not familiar with him