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Jimmy Kimmel's Heartbreak: Mourning Band Leader Cleto Escobedo III at 59

Jimmy Kimmel shared the heartbreaking news about his band leader's passing on Instagram. He revealed that he and Cleto had been close friends since childhood. During his show, Kimmel became emotional while paying tribute to his longtime colleague. The comedian announced that several episodes would be cancelled following this devastating loss.

Key Points: Jimmy Kimmel Mourns Death of Band Leader Cleto Escobedo III

  • Kimmel confirmed the news through an emotional Instagram post
  • The two had been inseparable friends since they were nine years old
  • Kimmel broke down during his show's monologue while paying tribute
  • Several upcoming episodes of Jimmy Kimmel Live! will be cancelled
  • Fans flooded social media with condolences for the band leader
2 min read

Jimmy Kimmel mourns passing of old friend, his show's band leader Cleto Escobedo III, says heartbroken is an understatement

Jimmy Kimmel shares emotional tribute after death of longtime friend and band leader Cleto Escobedo III, saying "heartbroken is an understatement."

"To say that we are heartbroken is an understatement. - Jimmy Kimmel"

Los Angeles, November 12

Cleto Escobedo III, Jimmy Kimmel's longtime friend and leader of his show's house band, Cleto and the Cletones, has passed away at 59.

In an emotional Instagram post, Jimmy Kimmel confirmed the news of his friend's passing and remembered their time spent together, from being kids to working together on the Jimmy Kimmel Live!

"Early this morning, we lost a great friend, father, son, musician and man, my longtime bandleader Cleto Escobedo III. 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," he wrote on Instagram.

https://www.instagram.com/p/DQ7f5moEYYy/

He went on to urge everyone to cherish their friends as he did for Cleto, further requesting them to pray for the late artist's family.

As soon as he shared the news, fans flooded the comment section with condolences. Many also spoke about the bond between the longtime friends.

On the Tuesday episode of Jimmy Kimmel Live!, the comedian broke down in tears as he offered a tribute to his late friend.

"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. Everyone loves Cleto... everyone here at the show. We are devastated by this. It's not... It's just not fair," Kimmel said, as quoted by People.

He also announced that a few upcoming episodes will be cancelled in the wake of Cleto's loss.

As per People, Jimmy Kimmel and Cleto Escobedo III grew up together; however, their friendship grew stronger after coming together for the Jimmy Kimmel Live!

The two had been together since its premiere in 2003.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
59 is too young to go. Makes you realize how precious life is. The bond they shared reminds me of my school friends - we should all cherish our friendships more. Om Shanti for Cleto's soul.
S
Sarah B
While I feel for Jimmy's loss, cancelling multiple episodes seems excessive. The show must go on, and honoring Cleto through continuing their work might be a better tribute than shutting down completely.
A
Arjun K
The way Jimmy broke down on air shows how genuine their friendship was. In our Indian culture, we understand these deep bonds - friends become family. May Cleto rest in peace 🙏
M
Michael C
Working with your childhood best friend for 20+ years - that's the dream! Their story is truly special. Makes me want to call my old friends right now.
K
Kavya N
The pain in Jimmy's words is palpable. Losing someone who's been with you since childhood leaves a void that can never be filled. My heart goes out to Cleto's family during this difficult time.

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