Cleto Escobedo III, the legendary bandleader of Jimmy Kimmel Live!, died from cardiogenic shock on November 11, 2025. He was 59 years old. The saxophonist and musical director passed away at UCLA Medical Center. His death certificate reveals the heart failure occurred after a liver transplant.
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🔥 Quick Facts:
- Cleto Escobedo III led the house band since 2003 premiere
- Immediate cause: cardiogenic shock following liver transplant
- Death occurred on Nov. 11, 2025 at UCLA Medical Center
- Childhood best friend of Jimmy Kimmel who knew him since age 9
- 20-year legacy as Cleto and the Cletones house band leader
What Happened: Cardiogenic Shock After Liver Complications
Cleto Escobedo III died from cardiogenic shock on November 11, 2025. According to his death certificate obtained by TMZ, the heart condition was the immediate cause of death. Cardiogenic shock occurs when the heart fails to pump blood. This followed complications from a liver transplant performed earlier.
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The death certificate lists vasodilatory shock, disseminated intravascular coagulation, and alcoholic cirrhosis as underlying causes. Additional contributing factors included sepsis, graft versus host disease, immunosuppression, chronic kidney disease, and pneumonia. Mayo Clinic defines cardiogenic shock as a life-threatening condition.
“Cardiogenic shock is a life-threatening condition that occurs when the heart is unable to pump enough blood to meet the body’s needs.”
Escobedo had received the liver transplant not long before his death. His health complications developed rapidly, requiring hospitalization. He fought hard to recover for his wife and two children. The complications proved insurmountable.
Who Was Cleto Escobedo III: A Legacy of Music and Friendship
Cleto Escobedo III built a legendary music career spanning decades. He began as a child prodigy saxophonist inspired by his father. Growing up in Las Vegas, he studied at University of Nevada, Las Vegas. He performed gigs on the Las Vegas Strip early in his career.
Paula Abdul recruited him for her touring band, launching his national profile. He also collaborated with Earth, Wind and Fire. Escobedo secured his own record deal before joining late-night television. His musical influences included Stevie Wonder, Rufus, Donny Hathaway, Tower of Power, and Sting.
When Jimmy Kimmel Live! launched on ABC in 2003, Escobedo became bandleader. Kimmel and Escobedo had been inseparable since age nine in Las Vegas. They lived out a childhood dream working together. Escobedo led Cleto and the Cletones for over 20 years. He lived in Studio City, California with family.
The Impact and Tribute: A Friendship That Changed Television
| Role | Details |
| Show | Jimmy Kimmel Live! since 2003 |
| Band Name | Cleto and the Cletones |
| Tenure Length | 22 years of daily performances |
| Family Connection | Father Cleto Jr. performed saxophone |
| Personal Life | Married to Lori; two children |
Jimmy Kimmel delivered an emotional tribute on television. He broke into tears during his monologue. Kimmel cancelled the following two episodes in mourning. He called Escobedo “the nicest, most humble, kind, and always funny person.”
Keyboardist Jeff Babko worked alongside Escobedo for 30 years. He told Rolling Stone: Escobedo loved groove, soulful playing, and authentic music. Babko said his friend “fought until the bitter end” for his family. Fellow musician Sheila E. paid heartfelt tribute. Paula Abdul praised his “pure light and soul.”
What to Watch For: Remembering a Music Legend
Jimmy Kimmel launched two fundraisers in Escobedo’s memory. The entertainment world continues sharing tributes. The late-night television community mourns his loss deeply:
- Kimmel honored his “great older brother” with no baggage
- Musicians praise his authentic, soulful approach to music
- Escobedo’s family receives support from show staff and friends
- His legacy continues through Cleto and the Cletones performances
- Fundraisers benefit causes important to Escobedo and his family
Did Jimmy Kimmel Cancel His Show? Here’s What Happened
When Cleto Escobedo III passed away on November 11, Jimmy Kimmel announced the tragic news on air. He delivered a tear-filled monologue that moved viewers. Kimmel cancelled two subsequent episodes on November 12-13 to grieve.
His emotional words revealed their deep bond. “We are inseparable since I was nine years old,” Kimmel said publicly. He called Escobedo a “great friend, father, son, musician and man.” The late-night community stood in solidarity. Escobedo Sr. performed in the band during the November 11 taping honoring his son.
What makes their friendship remarkable? Childhood friends who built professional success together.
Sources
- Rolling Stone – Cleto Escobedo cause of death details
- People Magazine – Tribute and biographical information
- TMZ – Death certificate documentation and details
Daniel Harris is a specialist journalist focused on the crossroads of breaking news, extraordinary history, and enduring legends. With a background in historical research and storytelling, he blends timely reporting with timeless narratives, making complex events and ancient myths resonate with today’s readers. Daniel’s work often uncovers surprising links between present-day headlines and legendary tales, offering unique perspectives that captivate diverse audiences. Beyond reporting, he is passionate about preserving oral traditions and exploring how extraordinary stories continue to shape culture and identity.