In a deeply moving television moment that left viewers and staff emotional, Jimmy Kimmel struggled to maintain composure during Tuesday night's episode of Jimmy Kimmel Live! as he paid tribute to his lifelong friend and band leader Cleto Escobedo III, who passed away earlier that day at the age of 59.
An Emotional On-Air Tribute
The 57-year-old host began the show visibly shaken, describing the moment as "the hardest monologue" he has ever delivered in his 23 years on air. With his voice breaking multiple times, Kimmel shared, "We've been on the air for almost 23 years and I've had to do some hard monologues along the way. But this one's the hardest because late last night, early this morning, we lost someone very special who was much too young."
Kimmel paused frequently, fighting back tears as he remembered Escobedo as a "great friend, father, son, musician and man." He emphasized how universally loved Escobedo was among the show's staff, stating emotionally, "Everyone loves Cleto... everyone here at the show. We are devastated by this. It's not... it's just not fair."
A Friendship Spanning Decades
The bond between Kimmel and Escobedo extended far beyond their professional relationship. In an Instagram statement posted earlier, Kimmel revealed they had been inseparable since childhood, having grown up together in Las Vegas from the age of nine.
"Cleto and I have been inseparable since I was nine years old," Kimmel wrote. "The fact that we got to work together every day is a dream neither of us could ever have imagined would come true. Cherish your friends and please keep Cleto's wife, children, and parents in your prayers."
The emotional weight of the evening was amplified by the presence of Escobedo's family. His father, Cleto Escobedo Sr., performed with the Jimmy Kimmel Live! band, Cleto and the Cletones, during Tuesday's episode in what became a poignant tribute to his son. Escobedo's mother was also present in the audience, adding to the emotional significance of the evening.
A Celebrated Musical Career
Before joining Jimmy Kimmel Live! in 2003, Escobedo had already established himself as a respected musician in the industry. His impressive career included touring with legendary acts like Earth, Wind & Fire and Paula Abdul, and he had even secured his own record deal.
However, for Kimmel, the decision to bring Escobedo on board was about more than just musical talent. "Of course, I wanted great musicians, but I wanted somebody I had chemistry with," Kimmel explained in a previous interview, highlighting the personal connection that made their professional collaboration so special.
In a 2021 ABC featurette, Escobedo recalled how Kimmel offered him the position of band leader. "Jimmy called and said, 'Hey man, I think I'm going to have this show, do you want to be my band leader?' Of course, I was like, 'Yes.' It's been the best gig ever," he remembered with evident joy.
Escobedo often credited his father for his musical career, sharing in interviews, "I play sax because he played sax when I was a kid. He quit performing so he could be home with me and worked as a busboy for 30 years. He sacrificed a lot for me."
Show Cancellations and Final Words
The tragic news came just days after the show postponed its November 6 episode due to what Kimmel's team had described as a "personal matter." As Kimmel concluded Tuesday's emotional tribute, he announced that Jimmy Kimmel Live! would take the next two nights off to mourn their loss.
In his final words about his dear friend, Kimmel shared that Escobede would not have wanted them to skip that night's episode, which featured guest Eddie Murphy. "He loved this show. And we loved him," Kimmel said softly, bringing the emotional tribute to a close.
The entertainment industry has lost not just a talented musician, but a man described by those who knew him as generous, joyful, and deeply dedicated to both his family and his craft. The void left by Escobedo's passing at just 59 years old will be deeply felt by all who knew and worked with him.
