Just days after the untimely passing of Jimmy Kimmelâs band leader and childhood friend, Cleto Escobedo III, his cause of death has now been made public.
Cleto passed away on Tuesday, November 11, at the age of 59. Kimmel emotionally remembered his lifelong friend during the opening monologue of “Jimmy Kimmel Live!”
Now, new details emerge surrounding the death of Cleto. According to TMZ, the longtime band leader died when his heart could no longer pump sufficient blood to sustain life.
More Underlying Issues Contributed to Cleto Escobedo III’s Passing
The outlet obtained Cleto’s death certificate, and his immediate cause of death was listed as “cardiogenic shock.” In addition, he also suffered “vasodilatory shock, disseminated intravascular coagulation and alcoholic cirrhosis of the liver.”
TMZ also revealed that Cleto has other conditions that contributed to his passing, including “sepsis, graft versus host disease, immunosuppression, chronic kidney disease, and pneumonia.” It was also noted that Kimmel’s longtime friend was cremated.
Jimmy Kimmel Honors Late Friend With Fundraisers
Meanwhile, Kimmel continues to remember his beloved friend. On November 15, the talk show host launched two fundraising initiatives in honor of Cleto.
“Cleto was always kind and eager to help others. As we mourn his loss, we have started two fundraisers to celebrate his life and give back,” Kimmel wrote on Instagram.
“The first is for UCLA Medical Center where he received such incredible care. Together we can help vulnerable patients and families in need of financial assistance during hard times. @UCLAHealth
And to honor his love of animals, the @TheAnimalFoundation in our hometown of Las Vegas,” he continued.
Cleto leaves behind his wife, Lori, and their children, daughter Jesse, and son Cruz.
Fans Admire Their Beautiful Friendship
Amid the grief and heartbreak, fans have expressed their admiration for Kimmel and Cletoâs beautiful friendship.
One fan wrote, “Itâs all about love, kindness, good friendship, and what we can do for others.”
Another commented, “Such a beautiful, incredible friendship of love that will live forever.”
Someone added, “The bond that the two of you shared is something many people will never experience. Sending prayers to your family and his.”
Another chimed in, “The world needs more Cletos⦠and more Jimmy Kimmels and more epic friendships like yours⦠imagine how wonderful that could be.”
Kimmel and Cleto grew up together in Las Vegas, and when the talk show host landed his late-night gig in 2003, he insisted on bringing Cleto with him as the leader of Cleto and the Cletones.
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