The entertainment world has been marked by significant events this week, from heartfelt tributes to notable film releases and a remarkable charity auction.
Remembering Cleto Escobedo III
Cleto Escobedo III, the beloved bandleader of “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” and a close friend of comedian Jimmy Kimmel, has died at the age of 59. Kimmel shared the news on Instagram, expressing profound sadness over the loss of a lifelong friend. The two first met as children in Las Vegas and maintained a strong bond throughout their lives. Escobedo, a talented saxophonist, toured with renowned artists like Earth, Wind & Fire and Paula Abdul before leading Kimmel’s house band since the show’s inception in 2003. He is survived by his wife Lori and their two children, and Kimmel has asked fans to keep Escobedo’s family in their thoughts.
New Releases and Notable Appearances
In the realm of television, actor Gary Cole is making headlines with a special crossover episode of “NCIS” in honor of Veterans Day. Known for roles in series such as “The West Wing” and “Veep,” Cole has gained new recognition through his work on “NCIS,” which has been on air for over two decades. The special episode, which features a compelling mystery, will continue to engage fans while highlighting the contributions of service members.
In cinemas, the third installment of the “Now You See Me” series, titled “Now You See Me: Now You Don’t,” has debuted to enthusiastic audiences. Directed by Ruben Fleischer, the film reunites the original cast of the Four Horsemen while introducing a new generation of illusionists. The plot revolves around a heist aimed at stealing the Heart Diamond, featuring Rosamund Pike as the antagonist. The film distinguishes itself by emphasizing physical magic tricks, making it a refreshing experience for fans of the franchise.
The entertainment community is also mourning the loss of actress Sally Kirkland, who passed away at 84. The Oscar-nominated star, best known for her roles in “The Sting” and “Anna,” had a career that spanned multiple decades and genres. Friends have set up a GoFundMe campaign to cover her medical expenses following health struggles in her final years.
Art Auctions and Charitable Endeavors
In a delightful turn of events, three paintings by the legendary public television artist Bob Ross sold for over $600,000 at an auction held at Bonhams in Los Angeles. The auction, conducted on Tuesday, aims to support public television stations affected by recent federal funding cuts. Notable sales included “Winter’s Peace,” which garnered $318,000, while “Home in the Valley” and “Cliffside” also fetched impressive sums. Ross, who passed away in 1995, continues to be a cherished figure in both art and television.
In international news, Israeli actress Gal Gadot has been awarded Israel’s Genesis Prize for her support during challenging times. The “Wonder Woman” star announced her intention to donate the $1 million prize to organizations aiding recovery from ongoing conflicts. Gadot expressed her pride in her heritage and commitment to her country amidst criticism from some quarters of the entertainment industry.
Lastly, the media landscape is witnessing turmoil involving the BBC and former U.S. President Donald Trump. The British government has come to the BBC’s defense amid a dispute over the editing of a Trump speech following the 2020 election. Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy emphasized the importance of the BBC as a trusted news source, while Trump’s legal team demands retractions and apologies regarding the network’s coverage. This situation highlights the increasing scrutiny of media editing practices in a politically charged environment.
As the week unfolds, the entertainment sector continues to grapple with loss, celebrate new creative endeavors, and engage in significant charitable actions, reflecting the diverse and dynamic nature of the industry.
