Cleto Escobedo III’s cause of death has been officially confirmed following days of uncertainty surrounding the longtime “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” bandleader. Escobedo, 59, died from cardiogenic shock, according to his death certificate first reported by TMZ. The documents list multiple underlying conditions, giving a clearer picture of the medical issues he faced. His passing came shortly after he was hospitalized due to complications related to a liver transplant. The confirmation ends speculation while deepening the emotional impact on fans and colleagues.
What Happened and Why
Cleto Escobedo III died in Los Angeles, where he had been receiving treatment following post-transplant complications. According to documents referenced by ABC and TMZ, his immediate cause of death was cardiogenic shock, a critical condition where the heart suddenly cannot pump enough blood to sustain the body.
The certificate also listed vasodilatory shock, disseminated intravascular coagulation, alcoholic cirrhosis, and sepsis, further illustrating the severity of his decline. Additional factors included chronic kidney disease, immunosuppression, and pneumonia.
Escobedo served as the bandleader of Cleto and the Cletones for nearly 23 years, becoming a defining presence on “Jimmy Kimmel Live!”. His father, Cleto Escobedo Jr., often appeared alongside him, creating one of the rare multigenerational musical teams in late-night television.
His final hospitalization prompted Jimmy Kimmel to cancel the Nov. 6 taping so he could be at his lifelong friend’s bedside. Two more episodes were later canceled after Escobedo’s death.
Tributes From the Entertainment Community
Jimmy Kimmel delivered an emotional tribute on the Nov. 11 episode of the show, remembering Escobedo as both a friend and a foundational part of the program’s identity. “We had our own language… almost no one else understood,” he said, visibly holding back tears.
Industry peers, musicians, and longtime viewers have flooded social media with tributes. Many highlighted Escobedo’s combination of musical skill, warmth, and professionalism. His decades-long collaboration with Kimmel was repeatedly described as one of late-night TV’s most enduring creative partnerships.
Colleagues praised what they called his “rare mix of talent and humility,” emphasizing how he mentored young musicians and contributed to the live sound of the show.
What It Means for the Show
Escobedo’s death leaves a major void in the musical foundation of “Jimmy Kimmel Live!”. His leadership shaped band chemistry, musical transitions, and on-air identity for more than two decades.
The loss also affects the tone and energy of live recordings. As bandleader, Escobedo coordinated cues, supported guests, and anchored the show’s sound. His absence forces an emotional and operational transition, as producers determine how to continue the band’s structure while honoring his legacy.
For fans, the confirmation of his cause of death provides closure but underscores how sudden medical complications can escalate, especially following major procedures like a liver transplant.
Upcoming Tributes and Decisions
ABC is expected to air additional tributes throughout the coming weeks. Discussions continue regarding how the show will handle future episodes, musical leadership, and long-term band arrangements.
A formal tribute special has not yet been announced, but network insiders suggest the possibility of a dedicated segment honoring Escobedo’s 23-year influence on the program.
As the entertainment community continues to respond, the confirmed cause of death of Cleto Escobedo III solidifies his legacy as one of late-night television’s most respected musicians.
Source
ABC News
TMZ
Deadline
Variety
Entertainment Weekly
