Jimmy Kimmel’s Longtime Friend and ‘JKL!’ Band Leader Cleto Escobedo III Dies at 59

Cleto Escobedo III—the saxophonist who powered the heart and soul of Jimmy Kimmel Live!—has died at 59, leaving late-night television noticeably dimmer. The news came through a visibly shaken Jimmy Kimmel, who finally revealed why last week’s show had been abruptly postponed. What was meant to be a night celebrating affordable medication instead turned into a moment of grief and remembrance.

Jimmy and Cleto’s bond stretched far beyond the stage. They grew up on the same block, pulling pranks as kids before becoming collaborators and, eventually, lifelong friends. When Kimmel launched his show in 2003, he didn’t go searching for a bandleader—he already knew who he wanted. Their chemistry, playful and seamless, became a comforting nightly presence for viewers.

During his tribute, Jimmy spoke through tears, calling Cleto a loving husband to Lori and a proud father to Jesse and Cruz. He reminded audiences of Cleto’s long career, his tours with musical greats, and how he sometimes shared the stage with his father, blending family with performance.

Production changes and canceled episodes suddenly made sense, but the real story was the deep friendship behind the scenes. “Everyone loves Cleto,” Jimmy said, and the emotion in the room confirmed it.

The moment was a quiet reminder to cherish the people around us. The jokes will resume, and the music will return, though with a tender ache. And each time the band begins to play, a part of Cleto’s warmth and generosity will still be there—soft, steady, and unforgettable.