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‘Jimmy Kimmel Live’ Band Rebrands as ‘Cleto & The Funky Friends’ Following Drummer’s Death
Los Angeles, CA – The house band for Jimmy Kimmel Live has officially changed its name to “Cleto & The Funky Friends” in a moving tribute to longtime drummer Cleto Escobedo III, who passed away on November 11th. The rebrand, confirmed during the show’s return on November 14th after a brief hiatus, honors Escobedo’s decades-long contribution to the program and reflects the deep impact of his loss on the entire Kimmel Live family.
The name change signifies more then just a musical update; it’s a permanent acknowledgment of Escobedo’s central role within the show’s identity. For 20 years, Escobedo provided the rhythmic backbone for the show, becoming a beloved figure both on and off camera. his unexpected death prompted Kimmel to postpone episodes on November 12th and 13th, and dedicate the November 14th show as a final tribute.The rebrand ensures his presence will continue to be felt with every performance, serving as a poignant reminder of his enduring spirit and musical talent.
During his November 11th monologue, Kimmel openly mourned Escobedo, stating, “Everyone loves Cleto, everyone here at the show.We are devastated by this.It’s not… it’s just not fair.” The band’s new moniker is a direct response to that sentiment, solidifying Escobedo’s legacy within the show’s ongoing narrative.
the re-dedication of the band comes amidst a period of external challenges for Jimmy Kimmel Live. Recent months have seen President Donald Trump publicly targeting late-night hosts, including Kimmel and Seth Meyers, following the announced end of The Late Show franchise. Kimmel addressed these attacks upon his return, urging viewers to resist any further attempts to silence late-night programming. However, the band’s name change represents an internal, heartfelt response to personal loss, demonstrating the show’s commitment to honoring its team members.
