Kimmel’s $1 Million Dual Fundraiser for Cleto Escobedo III Exposes the Deep Bond Behind the Desk and the Cost of Losing the Bandleader .DV

Late-night television is mourning the sudden, devastating loss of one of its most beloved figures. Jimmy Kimmel has publicly announced the launch of two distinct fundraising campaigns to honor the memory of his colleague, bandleader, and close friend, Cleto Escobedo III, who passed away earlier this week at the age of 59 due to heart failure.

Cleto, the charismatic leader of The Cleto and the Cletones, the house band for Jimmy Kimmel Live!, was more than just a musical director; he was the rhythmic heart and soulful energy of the show. For years, his infectious smile and effortless musical talent greeted millions of viewers nightly, turning the transition from commercial break to comedy segment into a guaranteed joy.

Kimmel, rarely showing such raw vulnerability, used his personal social media platform to convey the depth of his grief and the profound void left by Cleto’s passing. He described the bandleader as a man “always kind and eager to help others,” emphasizing the personal integrity that matched his professional brilliance.

The first fundraiser is dedicated to the UCLA Medical Center, where Cleto received treatment. This fund seeks to aid vulnerable patients and families facing financial hardship during critical medical battles, creating a safety net that Cleto himself would have championed. The second campaign is a moving tribute to his immense love for animals, benefiting The Animal Foundation in Cleto’s hometown of Las Vegas.

The dual focus—humanitarian aid and animal welfare—perfectly encapsulates the wide-ranging compassion of the late musician. This is not just a fundraising drive; it is the establishment of a dual legacy, ensuring that Cleto’s spirit of kindness continues to resonate far beyond the sound stage. The campaign serves as a powerful reminder that behind the laughter of late-night, deep, authentic friendships thrive, and their loss affects the entire ecosystem of American entertainment. Kimmel’s efforts are ensuring that the man who brought music to the show will now bring essential aid to those in need.