Jimmy Kimmel Honors Late Friend and Bandleader Cleto Escobedo III with Charitable Fundraisers

In a heartfelt tribute to his longtime friend and bandleader, Jimmy Kimmel has launched two fundraisers in memory of Cleto Escobedo III, who passed away on Tuesday at the age of 59. Escobedo, who had led the Jimmy Kimmel Live! house band since the show’s inception in 2003, was not only a central figure in Kimmel’s late-night world but also a cherished childhood friend.

Kimmel shared the news on social media, posting touching photos of Escobedo with his family and their dog, alongside a snapshot of himself with the late musician. “Cleto was always kind and eager to help others,” Kimmel wrote. “As we mourn his loss, we have started two fundraisers to celebrate his life and give back.”

The first initiative is in partnership with UCLA Medical Center, where Escobedo received care. The fundraiser aims to support patients and families facing financial hardship during difficult times. In his post, Kimmel highlighted the exceptional medical care Escobedo received at UCLA and the dedication of the doctors, nurses, and specialists who tended to him. “Together we can help vulnerable patients and families in need of financial assistance during hard times,” Kimmel emphasized, linking to the UCLA Health fundraiser page. The page itself honors Escobedo’s generous spirit, noting that the donations aim to assist those in need in the same way he had been supported.

The second fundraiser is dedicated to Escobedo’s deep love for animals. In collaboration with The Animal Foundation in Las Vegas, Kimmel encourages fans to support the organization, which works to provide safety, healing, and homes for pets in need. “Cleto was a compassionate animal lover. He loved each of his rescue dogs like they were family,” reads the foundation’s tribute page. “Cleto would have loved his friends and family helping to provide safety, healing, and homes for pets in need.”

Escobedo’s death followed complications from a liver transplant, and his cause of death was later confirmed as cardiogenic shock. The loss has deeply affected those close to him, particularly Kimmel, who publicly mourned his friend during the Tuesday night monologue. Breaking into tears, Kimmel described Escobedo as “the nicest, most humble, kind, and always funny person.” He reflected on their long history and shared success, saying, “He loved me. He loved seeing all of this happen. He loved being a part of it. He never took it for granted. He was just a great older brother. No baggage, all love. There’s no one in my life I felt more comfortable with.”

For over two decades, Escobedo played a defining role in Jimmy Kimmel Live!, providing the musical backbone of the show and creating a warm, welcoming atmosphere both onstage and behind the scenes. His influence extended beyond his musicianship; colleagues and fans alike remember him for his generosity, humor, and unwavering loyalty. Many describe him as the quiet force that kept the show’s energy vibrant and cohesive.

The dual fundraisers reflect Escobedo’s enduring legacy of compassion and community. One honors the medical care that sustained him while he faced serious health challenges, and the other celebrates his lifelong dedication to animal welfare. Through these initiatives, Kimmel hopes to channel the affection and respect he and many others feel for Escobedo into meaningful support for those in need.

Kimmel’s tribute, both public and personal, underscores the profound impact Escobedo had on his life and career. In mourning, he also calls on others to honor Escobedo’s memory by extending kindness to people and animals alike—a fitting reflection of a man whose life was defined by generosity, warmth, and an unassuming devotion to those around him.

As fans and friends alike rally around the fundraisers, Escobedo’s legacy will live on not only through the music that defined Jimmy Kimmel Live! but also through the charitable efforts inspired by his boundless heart.