Cleto Escobedo III Died of Cardiogenic Shock Following Heart Attack
Cleto Escobedo III, the longtime bandleader for Jimmy Kimmel Live!, died this week at age 59 following a battle with cardiogenic shock, a life-threatening condition where the heart cannot pump enough blood to meet the body’s needs. The cause of death was revealed days after his passing prompted an outpouring of grief from fellow musicians and comedian Jimmy Kimmel, who publicly mourned the loss of his friend and collaborator.
while often triggered by a large or severe heart attack, cardiogenic shock does not occur in every instance of a heart attack, according to medical sources. Escobedo’s death underscores the severity of this complication and its potential impact even among individuals without a prior history of heart disease. His passing leaves a void in the late-night television landscape and within the close-knit community of musicians who worked alongside him for decades.
Jimmy Kimmel announced Escobedo’s death on Tuesday night, delivering a tearful tribute to the bandleader. “It’s just not fair,” Kimmel said. “He was the nicest, moast humble, kind, and always funny person.” Kimmel emphasized their shared success and Escobedo’s genuine support,adding,”He loved me. He loved seeing all of this happen… He was just a great older brother. No baggage, all love. There’s no one in my life I felt more comfortable with.”
Keyboardist and musical arranger Jeff Babko, a collaborator of over 30 years, described Escobedo’s musical style as deeply soulful and authentic.”Musically, Cleto loved groove,” Babko shared with Rolling Stone. ”He loved Stevie Wonder, Rufus, Donny Hathaway, Tower of Power, Sting. He loved the truth. His playing was soulful, genuine – no math, no patterns, no cerebral showing-off. Just purpose and soul.” Babko also highlighted Escobedo’s dedication to his family and the strength of his friendships, stating, “He fought until the bitter end to stay here for his family… He spent a lifetime building friendships – deep, wide, loyal friendships.”
