😱 The Heartfelt Final Moments of Cleto Escobedo III: A Family’s Love Before Goodbye! 😱

Cleto Escobedo III, the acclaimed musician known for his role as the band leader of “Jimmy Kimmel Live,” passed away on November 11, 2025, at the age of 59.

His death was announced by the show’s host, Jimmy Kimmel, who took to social media to share a heartfelt tribute to his childhood friend and collaborator.

Cleto had been a vital part of the late-night show since its debut in 2003, leading the house band, Cleto and the Cleones.

His passing marks the end of a decades-long friendship and creative partnership that began long before their success in television.

Escobedo is survived by his wife, Lorie Escobedo, with whom he shared a deep and loving relationship.

The couple maintained a private life, rarely appearing in the public eye, although they were sometimes featured in social media posts that highlighted their bond.

Details about when they first met or married remain unclear, but Lorie’s private Instagram profile links to creative pages such as ArtBirds and the Smith Family Circus, suggesting her involvement in artistic endeavors.

When contacted by the Daily Mail, Lorie offered only a brief and emotional comment, stating, “Everything is not okay.”

Together, Cleto and Lorie had two children: a daughter named Jesse and a son named Cruz.

Cleto frequently expressed his affection for his children online, particularly for his daughter.

On her 10th birthday in 2019, he wrote a touching message: “I love a lot of people on this earth. But this little girl changed my life. When she came into this world, I never really knew what love was till you looked at me. You are my world, Jesse.”

His Instagram page often reflected his joy in family life, showcasing photos from fishing trips and quiet moments spent together.

Music was deeply rooted in Cleto’s family, with his father, Cleto Escobedo Jr., also being a saxophonist who performed alongside him in the “Jimmy Kimmel Live” band.

In a past interview with Mint, Cleto shared how Jimmy Kimmel inspired him to include his father in the band.

“Jimmy asked me, ‘Who are we going to get in the band?’ and then said, ‘Hey, man, what about your dad? Wouldn’t that be kind of cool?’ I was like, that would be way cool,” Cleto recalled, highlighting the close-knit nature of his family and the importance of music in their lives.

The bond between Cleto and his family was evident in every aspect of his life, from his social media posts to his on-stage performances.

He often dedicated his music to them, drawing inspiration from the love and support he received at home.

As fans and colleagues mourn his passing, they remember Cleto not only for his musical talent but also for his warmth, humor, and dedication to his family.

His contributions to “Jimmy Kimmel Live” and the entertainment industry will be remembered, but it is the love he shared with his family that will leave a lasting impact.

As the world reflects on Cleto Escobedo III’s legacy, it is clear that his spirit will live on through the music he created and the love he fostered within his family.

In these final moments, Cleto’s family will undoubtedly remember him as a devoted husband, father, and friend, whose life was filled with laughter, love, and music.

The memories they shared will continue to resonate as they navigate the difficult journey of loss together, carrying forward the legacy of a remarkable man who touched the lives of many.