Jimmy Kimmel‘s late house bandleader and friend, Cleto Escobedo III, is survived by his family. The saxophone player, whom Kimmel described as a “prodigy” since childhood, died at the age of 59 on November 11, 2025, and the late-night talk show host delivered an emotional monologue in honor of Escobedo, his parents and his wife and children.
While sending his thoughts to the Escobedo family, Kimmel said he hoped he could “remind” the late musician’s children, as they grow up, how much [Escobedo] loves them, because it’s a lot.”
Below, learn about Escobedo’s wife and their family.
What Happened to Cleto Escobedo?
Kimmel did not explain what happened to Escobedo. However, Page Six reported that Escobedo had complications from a liver transplant.
Moreover, Kimmel thanked the doctors and nurses at UCLA Health for taking “incredibly good care” of Escobedo over “these awful few months.”
“Everyone here at the show — we are devastated by this,” Jimmy said on his show. “It’s just not fair. He was the nicest, most humble, kind and always funny person.”
Was Cleto Escobedo Married?
Yes, Escobedo was married to his wife, Lori Escobedo. The couple kept most of the details of their life together private, so it’s unclear how long they had been together before he died.
Did Cleto Escobedo Have Children With His Wife?
Yes, as previously noted, Cleto and Lori shared two children together. The spouses kept their children’s lives away from the public eye.
How Did Cleto Escobedo Die?
At the time of publication, no cause of death for Escobedo has been disclosed. In an Instagram announcement shared by Kimmel, the comedian expressed how “heartbroken” everyone on his show felt about the loss.
“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,” the comedian wrote in his caption next to a photo of Escobedo on stage. “Cleto and I have been inseparable since I was 9 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. Cherish your friends and please keep Cleto’s wife, children and parents in your prayers.”
