😱 From Friends to Family: The Deep Bond Between Jimmy Kimmel and Cleto Escobedo III! 😱 

Late-night host Jimmy Kimmel recently delivered an emotional tribute to his longtime band leader and childhood friend, Cleto Escobedo III, who sadly passed away at the age of 59.

Cleto, the beloved leader of Cleto and the Cletones on “Jimmy Kimmel Live,” left behind a legacy that Kimmel described as creating a “giant hole in my heart.”

In a poignant interview, Kimmel shared memories of the man who had been by his side since the very beginning of his television career.

He emphasized that Cleto was not just the person who played the saxophone or led the band; he was the very soul of their show.

Kimmel expressed, “He made everything feel alive. Every rehearsal, every commercial break, every night.”

The two first met as teenagers in Las Vegas, long before either of them found fame or stepped into the world of television.

According to Kimmel, their bond was instant.

“Cleo was the coolest guy I’d ever met,” he recalled.

“He had this natural charisma. People were just drawn to him.”

Their friendship blossomed and remained steadfast, regardless of how much their lives changed when “Jimmy Kimmel Live” launched in 2003.

Kimmel stated there was never any question about who would lead the band when the show began.

“I told ABC right away, I’m bringing Cleto. He was the only choice,” Kimmel said.

He credited Cleto with bringing the groove, humor, and heart to the show, noting that it simply wouldn’t have been the same without him.

For more than two decades, Escobedo’s easy smile, playful energy, and effortless musicianship became central to the show’s identity.

Whether he was engaging in banter with Kimmel or performing alongside guest artists, Cleto embodied warmth and authenticity that resonated with audiences.

Offstage, he was a devoted husband and father, as well as a mentor to many young musicians across Los Angeles.

Kimmel became visibly emotional as he recounted their final conversation.

“Even when he was sick, he was cracking jokes,” Kimmel shared softly.

“He told me, ‘Don’t make it too sad when I’m gone,’ but that’s impossible.”

Kimmel referred to Cleto as “my brother in every way that matters.”

He paused for a moment, his voice catching, as he reflected on their nightly ritual.

“Every night before the show, we’d hug. That was our ritual. I can’t imagine walking out there without him.”

Cleto Escobedo III is survived by his wife and children, who will undoubtedly carry on his legacy of love and music.

In honor of Cleto, ABC announced that “Jimmy Kimmel Live” will air a special musical tribute later this week.

This segment will celebrate his life and the lasting impact he made on the show, the band, and everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.

As fans and colleagues mourn his loss, they remember Cleto not only for his musical talent but also for the joy and camaraderie he brought to every performance.

His spirit will continue to resonate through the music he created and the bonds he forged with those around him.

In this time of grief, Kimmel’s tribute serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of friendship, love, and the connections we make throughout our lives.

As the show prepares to honor Cleto’s memory, the music and laughter he shared will forever echo in the hearts of those who loved him.

The legacy of Cleto Escobedo III will undoubtedly live on, reminding everyone of the joy that music can bring and the profound impact one individual can have on the lives of many.