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All Updates on Taylor Sheridan’s Paramount+ Show – Hollywood Life
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All Updates on Taylor Sheridan’s Paramount+ Show – Hollywood Life

by jummy84
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Image Credit: Paramount+

Landman dropped on Paramount+ on November 17, 2024, with a double-episode premiere — and in less than two months, it soared to become the streamer’s most-viewed original series ever according to USA Today. The hit drama, created by Taylor Sheridan, stars Billy Bob Thornton, Demi Moore, Jon Hamm, Ali Larter and an ensemble cast, and it wrapped its explosive first season with a finale on January 11, 2025. Now that season 2 is almost here, fans are clamoring to find out the fates of their favorite characters.

Below, Hollywood Life has exclusive details on what to expect in season 2.

What Is ‘Landman’ About?

Landman is an 11-episode modern western drama helmed by Yellowstone creator Sheridan. Thornton leads the cast as Tommy Norris, an oil company operations VP and petroleum landman. “Set in the proverbial boomtowns of West Texas, Landman is a modern-day tale of fortune seeking in the world of oil rigs,” reads an official plot description of the show, per Whattowatch.com.  “Based on the notable 11-part podcast Boomtown from Imperative Entertainment and Texas Monthly, the series is an upstairs/downstairs story of roughnecks and wildcat billionaires fueling a boom so big, it’s reshaping our climate, our economy and our geopolitics.”

Where to Watch ‘Landman’ Season 1

You can stream Landman season 1 and its upcoming second season on Paramount+.

Will ‘Landman’ Return to Paramount+ For Season 2?

Yes! Season 2 of Landman is officially set to premiere on November 16, 2025, with new episodes dropping at 3:00 a.m. ET on Paramount+. Production began in April 2025.

At the 2025 premiere of the official trailer, lead actor Billy Bob Thornton described season 2 as “a slow burn that builds to a massive payoff.” Meanwhile, returning star Demi Moore had previously teased the next chapter during the Cannes Film Festival in May 2024, saying “I’ve already completed the first season and I’m excited for us to start the second, which will be at the beginning of next year,” per Pinkvilla.

During an exclusive interview with Hollywood Life ahead of the season 2 premiere, cast members Paulina Chávez and Jacob Lofland, who play Ariana and Cooper, respectively, teased what fans can expect from their characters’ blossoming relationship in the second season.

'Landman' Season 2: All Updates on Taylor Sheridan's Paramount+ Show
Jacob Lofland as Cooper Norris and Paulina Chavez as Ariana in Landman episode 1, season 2 (Photo Credit: Emerson Miller/Paramount+)

“We pretty much pick up where we left off and navigating the things of relationships [sic],” Paulina explained. “It is a very delicate storyline that is so beautiful and gives you so much hope, but it was something that we had so many conversations about and how we really wanted to portray [Cooper and Ariana’s bond].”

Will There Be a Season 3 of Landman?

At the time of publication, Landman has not been renewed for a third season yet, but the cast is optimistic about the possibility! While speaking exclusively with Hollywood Life before the season 2 premiere, Mark Collie said there are “more stories to tell.”

“The longer [the show] goes, I’m here because I love it,” Mark added.

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Simone Biles On WAG Life & Her New Athleta Collection
Fashion

Simone Biles On WAG Life & Her New Athleta Collection

by jummy84
written by jummy84

SB: There’s a couple. I’m going to start with the sateen bucket bag. That is just such a fashionable piece. It’s just a really cute accessory. And I think people are going to love to layer it, as well as the Elation Shine Leggings, those have a subtle zebra print, which you can’t really tell until you’re up close. It just adds something extra without being overpowering. That’s really, really cute and fashionable. We have the sateen bomber jacket that in the fall and the winter, I just put over everything. We also have the Forever Fleece sweatpants, which are a barrel leg, and that is just so fun. What I love about Athleta so much is that everyone can wear it. We try to be inclusive — there’s extra extra small, all the way to extra large, as well as tall and petite sizing. And for me, at 4’8, that’s perfect. But then we got my girl, [Olympic swimmer] Katie Ledecky, over here, wearing tall. We don’t want it to be one size fits all. We want everyone to be able to rock it, especially through this fall and this winter weather. 

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When Will the House Vote on the Shutdown? Government Pause Updates – Hollywood Life
Hollywood

When Will the House Vote on the Shutdown? Government Pause Updates – Hollywood Life

by jummy84
written by jummy84

Image Credit: Getty Images

The 2025 government shutdown gradually spread panic across the United States as it dragged on for more than 40 days. From October 1 through mid-November, certain services were impacted while Republican and Democratic lawmakers struggled to compromise on a funding bill. Now that flights have been reduced ahead of the holiday season, travelers have expressed concern, and others have wondered whether their SNAP benefits and healthcare are at risk. At long last, however, a group of eight Senators sided with Republicans on a new proposal that would effectively end the shutdown — provided the House of Representatives approves the bill.

Among those eight Democrats who voted to approve new legislation on November 9 was Senator Tim Kaine, who spoke to reporters that night from Capitol Hill.

“I have long said that to earn my vote, we need to be on a path toward fixing Republicans’ health care mess and to protect the federal workforce,” Kaine said, according to The Hill. “This legislation will protect federal workers from baseless firings, reinstate those who have been wrongfully terminated during the shutdown, and ensure federal workers receive back pay, as required by a law I got passed in 2019. That’s a critical step that will help federal employees and all Americans who rely on government services.”

However, other Democrats disagreed with their colleagues’ vote because the deal with Republicans would not ensure an extension of certain health premiums. Senator Bernie Sanders said in an X video that it was a “very, very bad vote.”

Below, we have the latest information on when the House should vote to end the shutdown.

When Will the Government Shutdown End?

There was no precise end in sight to the 2025 government shutdown. More than 40 days into the pause, this became the longest shutdown in American history, and it’s due to a stalemate between the Democrats and the Republicans.

When Will the House Vote on the Government Shutdown?

After the Senate adjourned late at night on November 9, House members were informed that votes regarding government funding were expected to take place that week. On November 12, the House approved the deal.

Which Democrats Voted With Republicans on the Shutdown?

The Democratic Senators who reached a deal with Senate Republicans are John Fetterman from Pennsylvania, Catherine Cortez Masto from Nevada, Jacky Rosen from Nevada, Dick Durbin from Illinois, Jeanne Shaheen from New Hampshire, Maggie Hassan from New Hampshire and Tim Kaine from Virginia.

Independent Angus King from Maine also voted on the deal with the Democrats.

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9 pitch-perfect holiday gifts for the music lovers in your life
Lifestyle

9 pitch-perfect holiday gifts for the music lovers in your life

by jummy84
written by jummy84

Shopping for a music fan is no easy task. It seems like it should be: Know their favorite artists? Simply buy them an album on the physical medium of their choice. But how can you be certain they don’t already own it?

9 pitch-perfect holiday gifts for the music lovers in your life

The best presents are a bit more creative than that. Don’t know where to begin? We’ve got your back.

Here’s a gift guide for the audio lover in your life — from a massive new oral history courtesy Paul McCartney to a pocket-size drum machine, some Dr. Dre and Snoop Dogg gin, and so much more.

What do you get the classic rock ’n’ roll fan in your life? Something that lets them share their enthusiasm with others, of course. Bicycle playing cards make the perfect stocking stuffer, and their AC/DC collection offers a personalized touch. Peep Angus Young and his signature axe on this deck; it’s enough to make anyone want to break out their guitar … or, at the very least, play a little poker. $8.99.

Every music enthusiast needs a decent speaker in their life. And for the more eccentric listener, only a truly unique device will do. That’s where Uncommon Goods’ Acoustic Gramophone Amplifying Speaker enters the conversation. This beautiful smartphone speaker — handmade from walnut wood — naturally amplifies. That’s right: There are no cords, wires, batteries, solar panels or whatever else involved. Simply slide your phone into the slot, press play on your favorite streaming platform and let the natural acoustic enhancements happen. $100.

It’s hard to go wrong with Dolly Parton. So, make your holiday shopping easier by gifting a country connoisseur her latest coffee-table book, “Star of the Show: My Life on Stage.” It’s the third and final installment in her photographic trilogy of big ol’ books — following “Songteller,” which was all about her lyrics, and “Behind the Seams,” about her daring and culture-shifting fashion. Parton has arguably saved the best for last: This text is all about her performance, offering both an in-depth personal and professional history. Plus, it’ll look great in any living room. Random House. $55.

For the 21-and-older hip-hop crowd: This one is for you. While most gins are a bit polarizing — non-fans think the liquor is too bitter, or too botanical — Still G.I.N., the brainchild of rap royalty Dr. Dre and Snoop Dogg, hits the right notes. The official description of their gin’s flavor profile includes “notes of tangerine, jasmine, and coriander for an unforgettable aromatic finish.” None of your holiday party attendees will complain about its distinct, delicious — and best of all for those on the fence — unobtrusive taste. $36.99 for a 750ml bottle.

Loving music is one thing. Making it is another. For the aspiring producer, prolific percussionist or virtuosic songwriter, look no further than a Stylophone Beat Drum Machine. The pocket-size device allows its user to make beats on the go. Because who knows where inspiration will strike? It’s best to have access to four sound banks and a stylus on hand at all times. And if that’s not enough of a selling point: It also features a built-in speaker and headphone socket, so you can listen and play wherever you are. $40 from the Museum of Modern Art’s online store.

Bad Bunny’s latest album, the ambitious “Debí Tirar Más Fotos,” is a love letter to Puerto Rico. It effortlessly combines modern genres — house rhythms, electronic production, reggaeton — with salsa and nylon-stringed plena guitars. In his music videos and at his historic residency in San Juan this summer, the global superstar continued to embrace traditional Puerto Rican iconography. That included the use of pavas — straw hats traditionally worn by jíbaros, Puerto Rican rural farmers. His official merchandise does the same and has been discounted for the holiday season. Especially attractive is the Bad Bunny Pava T-shirt, with its fashionable high neck and artful illustration of Bad Bunny in a pava — lifted from his 2025 Met Gala look. $40.

Tour books are a dime a dozen these days and with good reason. They make for great gifts! High-resolution, never-before-seen images are ideal for the young superfan — and Olivia Rodrigo knows that. Her “GUTS World Tour Book” boasts 136 pages of images and some text detailing her energetic run of shows, alongside a sticker sheet, limited-edition poster and more. While the stan in your life awaits Rodrigo’s third album, surprise them with this. Available via Rodrigo’s merch store for $38.

For the K-pop lover — heck, for the animated family film fan — there was no bigger pop culture story in 2025 than “KPop Demon Hunters.” The women of the fictional girl group HUNTR/X as well as the heartthrobs of demon boy band Saja Boys no doubt inspired a million cosplays. The most envy-worthy of their fashions is likely HUNTR/X leader Rumi’s bright yellow bomber jacket and, luckily, Netflix has it available for purchase on their webstore. It’s unique enough to function as a costume but also sporty enough for everyday wear. $89.95.

Paul McCartney has teamed up with editor Ted Widmer for a new oral history, “Wings: The Story of a Band on the Run,” compiled from over 500,000 words of interviews. It’s an impressive undertaking that follows the band from their founding in the 1970s to their dissolution in 1981, featuring extensive commentary from McCartney as well as co-founding members, the late Linda McCartney and Denny Laine, and many more. For the Beatles fan in your life and then some. Liveright. $45.

For more gift guides and holiday coverage, visit /hub/gift-guide and /hub/holidays.

This article was generated from an automated news agency feed without modifications to text.

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A Breakdown of the Song’s Lyrics – Hollywood Life
Hollywood

A Breakdown of the Song’s Lyrics – Hollywood Life

by jummy84
written by jummy84

Image Credit: Getty Images for Academy Museum

Hilary Duff finally went back, back to the beginning of her pop star roots. The former Lizzie McGuire star released her 2025 single, “Mature,” that November, and fans are still clamoring over the song’s lyrics and their meaning. The track is a recollection of a past, unknown relationship when Hilary dated an older man. Naturally, the song prompted listeners to contemplate whom she is singing about.

“Mature” is Hilary’s first piece of music she’s released in a decade, and fans can’t wait for her to perform live in the new year.

Below, Hollywood Life has a breakdown of the lyrics and meaning of Hilary’s 2025 single, “Mature.”

What Is Hilary Duff’s Song ‘Mature’ About?

Hilary explained in a press release that “Mature” is “a little conversation that my present self is having with my younger self.”

“The two of us are reflecting on a past experience and sending love to each other,” the Disney Channel alum noted. “It’s a chuckle, a wink and a sense of being grateful that we are sure footed in where we landed.”

Who Were the ‘Mature’ Song Lyrics Written About?

Hilary has not confirmed who “Mature was inspired by, but the lyrics point to a past relationship with an older man, who’s now dating a similar-looking younger girl.

“She looks / Like all of your girls but blonder,” the Younger star sings in the chorus. “A little like me, just younger / Bet she loves when she hears you say / ‘You’re so mature for your agе, babe’ / She looks / Like shе could be your daughter / Like me before I got smarter / When I was flattered to hear you say ‘You’re so mature for your age, babe,’ oh.”

In a separate verse, Hilary recalls listening to the song “Strawberry Letter 23” by The Brothers Johnson and hiding her “car at Carbon Beach so I wasn’t seen at yours.” Carbon Beach is located in Malibu, California.

Is ‘Mature’ About Hilary Duff’s Ex-Boyfriend Joel Madden?

Fans of Hilary are convinced that “Mature” was inspired by her past romance with ex-boyfriend Joel Madden. The former couple started dating in 2004 when Hilary was a teenager. They broke up about two years later, and Joel started dating his current wife, Nicole Richie.

Nicole and Hilary have remained friends for years, and the reality TV personality even showed her support for Hilary’s 2025 track in a sweet Instagram Story. In it, Nicole included a shot of her and the How I Met Your Father alum wearing black outfits, laughing and holding hands on the ground.

“‘Mature’ is not the word I would use to describe us, but regardless, this song is a BOP,” Nicole wrote across the Story.

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Sydney Sweeney, Amanda Seyfried
Celebrity News

About Sydney Sweeney and Amanda Seyfried’s Movie – Hollywood Life

by jummy84
written by jummy84

Image Credit: Getty Images

A thriller starring Sydney Sweeney and Amanda Seyfried sounds like a dream, and it has come true! The A-list actresses will lead Lionsgate’s movie The Housemaid. The Euphoria star will play the role of Millie, and the Dropout alum will play the character Nina.

Hollywood Life has rounded up everything you need to know about Amanda and Sydney’s new movie, The Housemaid.

What Is ‘The Housemaid’ About?

The Housemaid follows a struggling young woman named Millie, who gets a fresh start by working as a housemaid for wealthy couple Nina and Andrew. Per the film’s logline, “Millie soon learns the family’s secrets are far more dangerous than her own.” The movie is based on the bestselling book of the same name.

Lionsgate Motion Picture Group co-president Erin Westerman released a statement to Deadline about the project, which read, “Part of the fun of the book was imagining the cast while we read it, and Sydney Sweeney and Amanda Seyfried are perfect for Millie and Nina – they’re both mysterious, nuanced, and incredibly skilled at becoming characters who don’t reveal everything right away. We’re thrilled to team them with [director] Paul Feig, who we worked with on A Simple Favor and its upcoming sequel and has a proven track record of developing stories with dynamic female leads.”

According to the outlet, Adam Fogelson, the chair of Lionsgate Motion Picture Group, said in a statement that he’s “thrilled to have The Housemaid join our upcoming slate.”

“A great filmmaker and a great cast with a great script from a great book is a terrific place to start,” Adam added. “My prior work experiences with Paul and Amanda have been nothing short of spectacular, and Sydney is as talented and compelling as can be.”

‘The Housemaid’ Movie Cast

Sydney and Amanda are playing Millie Calloway and Nina Winchester, respectively, and they’re joined by Brandon Sklenar as Andrew Winchester, Michele Morrone as Enzo, Elizabeth Perkins as Evelyn Winchester, Indiana Elle as Cecelia Winchester, Mark Grossman as Scott Crawford, Hannah Cruz as Lexi, Megan Ferguson as Jilianne and Ellen Tamaki as Patrice.

‘The Housemaid’ Movie Release Date

The Housemaid will be released in theaters on December 19, 2025.

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Lady Frederick Windsor on Life in Royal Family
Celebrity News

Lady Frederick Windsor on Life in Royal Family

by jummy84
written by jummy84

“The senior royals work really hard with thousands of charities in Britain and around the world, behind the scenes as well as front-facing,” she added. “The King’s Trust is the greatest engineer for social mobility in Britain.”

As for her marriage to Lord Frederick, this isn’t the first time Sophie—whose in-laws are the late monarch’s cousin Prince Michael of Kent and his wife Princess Michael of Kent—has shared details about their high-profile nuptials. Earlier this summer, she revealed that due to her busy acting schedule, the couple didn’t have enough time to plan the ceremony of their dreams. So, her mother-in-law stepped in and helped with certain details, including picking out Sophie’s gown.  

“She sort of took it all over, and I actually didn’t mind at all,” she recalled to The Telegraph in May. “I thought, ‘Great, do everything.’ I was concentrating on this acting job and saying goodbye to my darling granny, who wasn’t very well, and just doing other stuff.”  

And while the Wonka alum would’ve opted for “a simpler dress,” she’s still grateful that her in-laws supported her during that stressful time.

“Family isn’t always brilliant, but this lot are very sweet,” she expressed. “I love all of them.”

Keep reading to see more royal news…

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Trump & Other Famous Names Mentioned – Hollywood Life
Hollywood

Trump & Other Famous Names Mentioned – Hollywood Life

by jummy84
written by jummy84

Image Credit: Getty Images

Jeffrey Epstein is long gone, but his files aren’t. Nearly six years after the convicted sex offender died in a Manhattan jail, public interest in the names tied to his network hasn’t faded. Portions of his files were unsealed in 2024 and again in 2025, prompting renewed speculation, particularly after U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi announced earlier this year she would release materials under the direction of President Donald Trump.

Bondi implied that a revealing “list” would be made public, but a Justice Department memo released in July 2025 — first reported by Axios — stated that no official “Epstein client list” exists. Still, several high-profile names have appeared in Epstein’s contact logs and flight records. While there is no evidence that any of these celebrities were involved in Epstein’s crimes, public curiosity remains about how so many prominent figures ended up loosely connected to such a notorious individual.

Below, learn which celebrities had a passing connection with Epstein and whose names are mentioned in the notorious Epstein files.

When Will the Epstein List Be Released?

Attorney General Bondi said she planned to release the records on February 27, 2025. Days prior, she told Fox News in an interview, “I think tomorrow … you’re going to see some Epstein information being released by my office. There are well over — this will make you sick — 200 victims … over 250, actually. … So, we have to make sure that their identity is protected and their personal information, but other than that, I think tomorrow — you know, the personal information of victims — other than that, I think tomorrow, Jesse, breaking news, right now, you’re going to see some Epstein information being released by my office.”

That day, TIME reported that the files were released on February 27, 2025. Bondi and conservative influencers were seen walking out of the White House holding up binders that read, “The Epstein Files: Phase I.”

However, months later, Bondi claimed that no list exists, sparking extensive backlash from fellow Republicans.

What Is in the Epstein Files?

According to multiple outlets, the files likely include Epstein’s more than 200 victims with redactions of their names for privacy purposes. Additionally, the files reportedly include the flight logs of the deceased pedophile’s private plane.

In 2024, a federal court revealed records related to Epstein and his celebrity connections. The documents included around 200 names, including Donald Trump and Bill Clinton. However, neither Clinton nor Trump has been accused of wrongdoing in the investigation, and neither have most other celebrities who once knew Epstein. Trump and his wife, Melania Trump, were photographed with Epstein and his long-time associate, Ghislaine Maxwell, at Mar-A-Lago in 2000.

Celebrities Mentioned in the Epstein Files

According to Newsweek, the following names were mentioned to have had contact with Epstein at least for a short time — though they were not linked to any of Epstein’s crimes:

  • Donald Trump
  • Prince Andrew
  • Bill Clinton
  • Cate Blanchett
  • Stephen Hawking
  • Michael Jackson
  • Leonardo DiCaprio
  • Kevin Spacey
  • Al Gore
  • George Lucas
  • Naomi Campbell
  • Bruce Willis
  • Cameron Diaz
  • Alec Baldwin
  • Mick Jagger

Trump’s former ally, Elon Musk, even tweeted that the president is mentioned in the files by taking to X in June 2025.

“@RealDonaldTrump is in the Epstein files,” Musk tweeted. “That is the real reason they have not been made public. Have a nice day, DJT!”

In July 2025, it was revealed that AG Bondi told Trump his name was mentioned in the Epstein files, according to multiple reports.

If you or anyone you know has been sexually abused, call the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1-800-656-HOPE (4673). A trained staff member will provide confidential, judgment-free support as well as local resources to assist in healing, recovering and more.

If you or someone you know is in emotional distress or considering suicide, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255).

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Mavis Staples Finds the Beauty and Sadness in Life » PopMatters
Music

Mavis Staples Finds the Beauty and Sadness in Life » PopMatters

by jummy84
written by jummy84

Mavis Staples has a remarkable voice. While some singers let the rough edges of their vocals show as they age, adding an impression of authenticity to their singing, Staples wraps her seven-plus decades of musical experience in honeyed tones. There is a sweetness that comes across even as she sings about war and injustice, as well as joy and happiness.

The adjectives from the title of her latest opus Sad and Beautiful World could easily fit as a description of her singing. She knows the current state of the nation has declined in terms of race relations and other social causes. It may make her depressed, but not for long. Staples also sees the glory and good that exists. You can hear it in her voice.

Producer Brad Cook (Bon Iver, Waxahatchee) smartly recorded Staples’ voice first with minimum accompaniment before adding an all-star roster of background singers and players to flesh out the songs. The list includes notable artists such as Buddy Guy, Bonnie Raitt, Jeff Tweedy, Derek Trucks, Katie Crutchfield, Sam Beam, Patterson Hood, and MJ Lenderman. The album also features a first-rate collection of songs by luminaries such as Leonard Cohen, Curtis Mayfield, Tom Waits, and David Rawlings & Gillian Welch, as well as one track specially written for Staples by Hozier and Allison Russell. That song, “Human Mind”, is the standout song in an album full of masterworks.

The confessional track is simultaneously personal and confessional despite not being written by Staples. She sings about her father and family, her past career and present concerns, and “finding the good in us, sometimes”. There’s a comforting, hymn-like quality to the song, abetted by Matt Douglass’ (The Mountain Goats) soulful saxophone playing. Staples simultaneously expresses hope and doubt, and a belief in love without being smarmy or corny. Due to her age, the singer’s awareness of mortality lies latent in the lyrics, both as a fact and a mystery.

These themes carry over into several of the other nine tracks. Staples sings “Satisfied Mind”, a number hit by Porter Wagner in 1955 that’s been covered by everyone from Bob Dylan and the Band, Mahalia Jackson, Willie Nelson, Ella Fitzgerald, and countless others, into a soft and primarily quiet acoustic ballad with Justin Vernon (Bon Iver) on harmony vocals.

Staple’s take on Kevin Morby’s apocalyptic “Beautiful Strangers” into a surrealistic dream-like prayer. Mark Linkous (Sparklehorse) penned the title track. Staples conveys the passing of time by slowing things down and annunciating each word. She croons, “Sometimes days go speeding past / Sometimes this one seems like the last” with conviction.” Love and death go together like beauty and sadness, indeed.

One can find compelling associations with Mavis Staples’ life on all the songs, from Tom Waits and Kathleen Brennan’s “Chicago”, to Dave Rawlings and Gillian Welch’s “Hard Times”, to Leonard Cohen’s “Anthem”, but one needn’t be familiar with her storied biography to appreciate the richness of her vocals. The Lifetime Achievement Grammy Award winner continues to inspire with her performances. If anything, she’s only getting better with age—although she’s always been one of our best artists.

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5 Things About Jimmy Kimmel’s Friend & Bandleader – Hollywood Life
Celebrity News

5 Things About Jimmy Kimmel’s Friend & Bandleader – Hollywood Life

by jummy84
written by jummy84

Image Credit: Getty Images

Jimmy Kimmel is grieving the loss of one of his closest friends and colleagues, Cleto Escobedo III. The longtime Jimmy Kimmel Live! bandleader and saxophonist, who had been with the show since it premiered in 2003, died at age 59 on November 11, 2025.

Shortly after, Kimmel shared a heartbreaking message on Instagram honoring his friend. He wrote, “Early this morning, we lost a great friend, father, son, musician and man, my longtime bandleader Cleto Escobedo III. To say that we are heartbroken is an understatement. Cleto and I have been inseparable since I was nine years old. The fact that we got to work together every day is a dream neither of us could ever have imagined would come true. Cherish your friends and please keep Cleto’s wife, children and parents in your prayers.”

Kimmel also delivered an emotional on-air tribute to Cleto on Jimmy Kimmel Live!, holding back tears as he reflected on their decades-long friendship and the irreplaceable presence Cleto brought to the show. The late-night host said their bond was more like that of brothers than co-workers.

Learn more about Jimmy’s longtime friend, Cleto, below.

He Was Jimmy Kimmel’s Lifelong Friend

Cleto and Jimmy ’s friendship began when they were just nine years old in Las Vegas. The two grew up together, attended the same schools, and bonded over their shared love of music and comedy. Their lifelong friendship became the foundation of Jimmy Kimmel Live!, with Kimmel often referring to Cleto as more of a brother than a co-worker.

He Served as the Jimmy Kimmel Live! Bandleader for Over 20 Years

When Jimmy Kimmel Live! premiered in 2003, Cleto became the show’s bandleader and saxophonist — a role he held for over 20 years. He led Cleto & The Cletones, the official house band, and helped define the show’s upbeat, soulful sound. Cleto’s humor, energy, and easy chemistry with Kimmel made him a beloved fixture on late-night TV. .

His Father Was Also in the Band

Cleto’s father, Cleto Escobedo Jr., was a musician himself — and the two shared the Jimmy Kimmel Live! stage together for years. The father-son duo quickly became fan favorites, often joking with Kimmel and performing side by side.

He Toured With Paula Abdul Early in His Music Career

Before joining Kimmel in the early 2000s, Cleto had already built an impressive résumé as a professional saxophonist. He toured with pop icon Paula Abdul, performing during her live shows and honing his skills on some of the biggest stages of the 1990s. Cleto’s versatility later led him to work with acclaimed artists including Earth, Wind & Fire, Marc Anthony, and Santana.

He Was Married and a Father of Two

Cleto was married to Lori Escobedo, and the couple had two children, Cruz and Jesse.

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