How Did Cleto Escobedo Die? Jimmy Kimmel Announces Death of Cleto & the Cletones Bandleader

Cleto Escobedo, the beloved bandleader of *Jimmy Kimmel Live!*’s Cleto and the Cletones, passed away on November 11, 2025. He was 59 years old.

The heartbreaking news was shared by Jimmy Kimmel himself, who released a heartfelt statement asking fans to “cherish your friends and please keep Cleto’s wife, children and parents in your prayers.” He added, “To say that we are heartbroken is an understatement. 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.”

### What Happened to Cleto Escobedo?

Kimmel did not provide details about the circumstances surrounding Escobedo’s passing. At the time of this publication, the cause of death remains unclear.

### How Did Cleto Escobedo Die?

As of now, there is no official information regarding how Escobedo died. Kimmel’s announcement only noted that Escobedo passed away on the morning of November 11, 2025.

### What Did the Cletones Say About Cleto’s Death?

The band Cleto and the Cletones, which includes Escobedo’s father Cleto Escobedo Sr., along with Jeff Babko, Toshi Yanagi, Jimmy Earl, and Jonathan Dresel, has yet to make a public statement about the loss of their lead musician.

### How Long Did Jimmy Kimmel & Cleto Escobedo Know Each Other?

Jimmy Kimmel and Cleto Escobedo shared a lifelong friendship that began in childhood. Their bond extended into their professional lives, working together daily on *Jimmy Kimmel Live!* for many years.

This story is developing, and further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
https://hollywoodlife.com/feature/cleto-escobedo-death-jimmy-kimmel-bandleader-dies-5488058/

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