Jimmy Kimmel is absolutely devastated.
The late night host could barely speak through the tears streaming down his cheeks in Tuesday night’s Jimmy Kimmel Live! monologue… because earlier in the day, his lifelong best friend Cleto Escobedo III passed away. He told the audience through watery eyes and a shaky voice:
“We’ve been on the air for almost 23 years and I’ve had to do some hard monologues along the way. But this one’s the hardest.”
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The comedian revealed he and Cleto had been friends for 47 years and took fans down memory lane sharing stories of their unbreakable bond, which included prank calls, roughhousing, parties, navigating girlfriends, adulthood, parenthood, and more:
“Cleto was the leader growing up. I was the sidekick; he was the star. Cleto played saxophone; I played clarinet. That’s kind of all you need to know about us.”
Jimmy went on to recognize what a “phenomenal” saxophone player Cleto’s father also was — but that he gave up a career in the music industry to raise his children. So when Jimmy landed his late night show, he hired both Cleto AND Cleto Sr. He said:
“I’ve often said that the single best thing about doing this show was getting the opportunity to allow Cleto Sr. to pick up where he left off in 1966 and become a musician again with his son.”
He affectionately referred to Cleto Sr. and his wife Sylvia as his “second parents”… and Cleto as his older brother:
“No baggage, all love. There’s no one in my life I felt more comfortable with.”
So, so sweet.
The 57-year-old went on to urge his audience members to “cherish” those they hold close:
“Cherish your friends. We’re not here forever.”
He also revealed he’ll be taking the rest of the week off to mourn his friend. Watch his emotional monologue in full (below):
As of now, Cleto’s cause of death is unknown. However, Page Six reported it may have been due to complications from a liver transplant. In addition to Cleto Sr. and Sylvia, Cleto is survived by wife Lori, and kids Jesse and Cruz.
What a tremendous loss. Our hearts go out to Jimmy and all of Cleto’s loved ones. Let’s all hug our loved ones a bit tighter. Rest in peace.
[Images via ABC/YouTube]
