Jimmy Kimmel Pays Emotional Tribute to Beloved Friend Cleto Escobedo II: 'Lost a Great Friend'
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Jimmy Kimmel Live!'s long-time house band leader Cleto Escobedo II passed away on November 11, leaving the late-night show's cast and crew devastated. In a heartfelt tribute, Jimmy Kimmel broke down in tears, calling Cleto a 'great friend, father, son, musician, and man.' The news of Cleto's death, caused by complications related to a liver transplant, came as a shock to everyone on the show. According to Kimmel, the two friends grew up together and their friendship strengthened during the premiere of Jimmy Kimmel Live! in 2003. In an Instagram post, Kimmel described Cleto as 'inseparable' since he was nine years old and expressed gratitude for the opportunity to work together every day. Cleto Escobedo II was 59 years old at the time of his passing and led the band Cleto and the Cletones for Jimmy Kimmel Live!. Kimmel's emotional monologue during the tribute was a testament to the strong bond they shared, and the impact Cleto had on the show and its cast. The late-night host's heartfelt words will surely be remembered as a tribute to a great friend and a talented musician.
