Jimmy Kimmel Launches Medical, Animal Fundraisers In Memory of Bandleader Cleto Escobedo

Jimmy Kimmel has launched two memorial fundraisers for his bandleader and lifelong best friend, Cleto Escobedo III.

The dual fundraising efforts will honor Escobedo by recognizing the hospital that cared for him in his final months, and the musician’s love of animals.

“Cleto was always kind and eager to help others,” Kimmel wrote in an announcement. “As we mourn his loss, we have started two fundraisers to celebrate his life and give back.”

“The first is for UCLA Medical Center where he received such incredible care,” he added. “Together we can help vulnerable patients and families in need of financial assistance during hard times.” Kimmel had also recognized UCLA’s medical professionals in his on-air eulogy to Escobedo on Tuesday night, noting they took “incredibly good care of him.”

“In memory of our friend Cleto, we’d like to thank all the hardworking specialists, doctors, and nurses at UCLA,” the new fundraising page reads. “They worked tirelessly and generously to give him the best care. Cleto was always kind and eager to help others… Let’s help others in Cleto’s name.”

The second fundraiser will direct funds to The Animal Foundation, based in Escobedo’s hometown of Las Vegas. As the largest single-site shelter for animals in the country, donations to The Animal Foundation will help support pets in need in the Las Vegas area. 

A fundraising page describes the Cletones bandleader as “a beloved friend, father, and animal lover whose heart was always open to pets in need,” and shares a message from the Escobedo family.

“Cleto was a compassionate animal lover. He loved each of his rescue dogs like they were family,” the Escobedo family said. “Cleto would have loved his friends and family helping to provide safety, healing and homes for pets in need.”

Kimmel’s announcement was accompanied by a family photograph of Escobedo with his wife, two children, and the family dog, as well as a second shot of Kimmel and Escobedo laughing on set in better times. 

After Tuesday’s emotional episode, Kimmel took the rest of the week off from Jimmy Kimmel Live!, including what would have been his birthday show on Thursday. JKL regular and real-life cousin to Kimmel “Cousin Sal” Iacono recognized the sense of loss the entire JKL family is feeling in a tribute to Kimmel on social media yesterday. “There’s no point in wishing Jimmy a happy birthday this year for these are the saddest of times in the JKL world,” he wrote.

Escobedo died early Tuesday morning, October 11. He was 59 years old. 

Donations to the UCLA Medical Center can be made in Escobedo’s name here, and to The Animal Foundation here.