What Did Cleto Escobedo III Die From?

Long-time musician and bandleader Cleto Escobedo III passed away on November 11, 2025, at the age of 59. The sad news was shared by his lifelong friend and colleague Jimmy Kimmel, who described him as “a great friend, father, son, musician, and man.”

Escobedo had been a central part of Jimmy Kimmel Live! since the show began in 2003. For more than two decades, his lively presence and musical energy helped shape the program’s signature sound and rhythm. Fans and fellow musicians have been expressing shock and sadness at his sudden passing, along with gratitude for the joy his music brought to late-night television.

What We Know

Escobedo led the house band Cleto and the Cletones on Jimmy Kimmel Live! since its debut.

Kimmel and Escobedo were childhood friends who both grew up in Las Vegas.

No official statement from Escobedo’s family or representatives has confirmed a specific cause of death.

Some reports mention possible complications following a liver transplant, but these accounts are unverified.

Reliable sources have stated that the cause of death has not been publicly disclosed.

What We Don’t Know

The exact medical reason that led to Escobedo’s death has not been confirmed by family or the show.

If the transplant-related reports are true, the exact details — timing, nature of the complications, or underlying illness — have not been made public.

It is unclear how long Escobedo may have been unwell or whether he had spoken about any health issues before his passing.

Why the Confusion

When a public figure passes away and the family chooses privacy, speculation often fills the space left behind. In Escobedo’s case:

The transplant-complication reports rely on unnamed sources and are not verified.

Jimmy Kimmel Live! reportedly postponed a recent taping, citing a “personal matter.” Some have connected this to Escobedo’s health, but there is no official confirmation.

Because no public statement has been made, it is important to treat early reports with caution and respect.

Why This Matters

Escobedo wasn’t just a television musician; he was part of the heartbeat of late-night entertainment for more than 20 years. His saxophone performances, smooth stage presence, and humor helped make the show’s band a key part of the nightly broadcast. His passing marks the end of a familiar sound that many viewers associated with laughter, music, and togetherness at the end of a day.

His death also reminds audiences that health issues can affect anyone — even those who seem energetic and full of life on camera. It’s a moment to pause and appreciate both the music he created and the personal strength he carried throughout his career.

A Bit of Background

Cleto Escobedo III came from a family of musicians. His father, Cleto Escobedo Jr., was also a performer and occasionally joined the band on the show. Growing up in Las Vegas, young Cleto developed an early love for jazz and R&B. After college, he played with various groups before becoming a professional session musician.

When Kimmel was invited to host a new late-night talk show in 2003, he called his childhood friend Cleto to lead the band. Their easy friendship translated naturally to television. Fans quickly noticed their chemistry, with Kimmel often joking with Cleto during the show’s introductions.

Over the years, Escobedo performed alongside hundreds of major artists, from rock legends to pop stars, blending styles from jazz to funk. Colleagues often praised him for his steady leadership and his ability to make any guest feel welcome on stage.

Off stage, Escobedo was known for his warmth and humor. Those close to him describe a man who loved his family deeply and never lost touch with his Las Vegas roots. He often credited his father for teaching him the value of discipline and kindness in music.

The Response

After the news of his death was made public, fans, friends, and fellow musicians flooded social media with tributes. Many shared clips of his performances, remembering his laughter and calm presence. Jimmy Kimmel’s emotional statement during a later broadcast brought viewers to tears, as he spoke about losing not just a bandleader but a brother-like friend.

Music colleagues called Escobedo a mentor and a “quiet giant” who supported others’ growth. Several recording artists credited him for giving them their first chance to perform on national television.

Final Thoughts

At this point, the safest summary is this:

Cleto Escobedo III died on November 11, 2025, at age 59.

The exact cause of death has not been officially confirmed.

Some outlets mention possible liver-transplant complications, but these reports are unverified.

Cleto Escobedo III will be remembered as a gifted musician, a loyal friend, and a symbol of musical joy in late-night television. While the details surrounding his death remain private, the impact of his life and music continues to resonate with fans and fellow performers alike.

His story reminds us that behind every familiar face on TV is a real person with a life full of friendships, challenges, and passion — and that music, above all, has the power to connect and comfort long after the final note fades.