Jimmy Kimmel Honors Beloved Bandleader Cleto Escobedo III with Emotional Tribute

Jimmy Kimmel paid a heartfelt tribute to his late-night bandleader Cleto Escobedo III on Tuesday's episode of Jimmy Kimmel Live!, breaking down in tears as he honored his childhood friend who died at 59. Kimmel opened the show with a somber monologue, saying, "We've been on the air for almost 23 years, and I've had to do some hard monologues along the way, but this one's the hardest because late last night, early this morning, we lost someone very special who was much too young to go, and I'd like to tell you about him. If you don't mind." Kimmel's emotional tribute was met with visible emotion from Escobedo's family, who were in attendance at the taping. Escobedo's father, a member of Kimmel's band, and his mother were visibly moved by the tribute. The photos of Kimmel and Escobedo's childhood together in Las Vegas appeared on screen as Kimmel recalled their lifelong friendship. Cleto Escobedo III was a beloved fixture on Jimmy Kimmel Live! for over a decade, leading the show's house band with his signature style and charisma. His death has sent shockwaves through the entertainment industry, with many of his colleagues and friends taking to social media to pay tribute to his memory. Kimmel's tribute was a poignant reminder of the impact that Escobedo had on his life and career. "There was a boy who lived on my block," Kimmel said, his voice cracking with emotion. "He lived across the street, and we became the best of friends. We grew up together, and he was always there for me." The loss of Escobedo has left a void in the entertainment industry, and his fans and colleagues are still coming to terms with the news. As Kimmel said, "We are devastated by this loss, and we will miss him dearly." The show will likely continue to pay tribute to Escobedo's memory in the coming days and weeks. In a statement, ABC said, "We are deeply saddened by the loss of Cleto Escobedo III, a talented musician and a beloved member of the Jimmy Kimmel Live! family. Our thoughts and condolences go out to his family and friends during this difficult time." The entertainment industry is still reeling from the news of Escobedo's passing, and many are taking to social media to pay tribute to his memory. As Kimmel said, "We will miss him dearly, and we will always remember him as a true friend and a talented musician."