Cleto Escobedo III’s passing has left a deep void in each the leisure world and the lives of those that beloved him most. Finest referred to as the saxophonist and bandleader for Jimmy Kimmel Reside!, Cleto was greater than only a staple on late-night TV — he was a loyal husband, father, and good friend. After Jimmy Kimmel confirmed the heartbreaking information of his loss of life at age 59, followers have been reflecting not solely on his decades-long profession but additionally on the household that stood by him all through it.
So, did Cleto Escobedo have kids? Right here’s every thing to know concerning the late musician’s spouse, youngsters, and the family members he leaves behind.
Who Was Cleto Escobedo III?
Cleto was the longtime bandleader and saxophonist for Jimmy Kimmel Reside!, a job he proudly held from the present’s debut in 2003 till his loss of life in 2025. Born and raised in Las Vegas, Cleto was a gifted musician who toured with artists like Paula Abdul, Earth, Wind & Hearth, and Santana earlier than becoming a member of Kimmel’s late-night household.
What Occurred to Cleto Escobedo III?
Cleto died on November 11, 2025, at age 59, as confirmed by Jimmy in an emotional submit and thru a tearful on-air tribute. Throughout his emotional tribute, Kimmel stated, “Late final evening, early this morning, we misplaced somebody very particular who was a lot too younger to go.”
Whereas the official explanation for loss of life hasn’t been confirmed publicly, a number of shops reported issues following a liver transplant.
Is Cleto Escobedo Survived by Any Kids?
Sure — Cleto is survived by his two kids, Cruz and Jesse Escobedo, whom he shared together with his spouse.
Who Is Cleto Escobedo’s Spouse?
Cleto was married to Lori Escobedo. In Kimmel’s tribute he stated, “He met a lady… a waitress throughout the road. Her identify is Lori. She was from Minnesota.”
How Lengthy Did Cleto and Jimmy Kimmel Know Every Different?
Cleto and Jimmy Kimmel’s friendship spanned 5 many years. “There was a boy who lived on my block… a bit over a 12 months older than me… his identify was Cleto,” Jimmy stated on his present. Their friendship advanced right into a inventive partnership when Kimmel invited Cleto to affix his late-night present in 2003.
He remembered numerous sleepovers, yard boxing matches, and late-night prank calls — and he described their skilled milestone as “we’ve been working collectively day-after-day for nearly 23 years.”
