Rodney Muñoz, the Emmy-winning costume designer for Jimmy Kimmel Live!, has died at the age of 60. Neither Kimmel nor reports have confirmed the cause or manner of his death.
Kimmel, 58, described Muñoz as one of the most talented people he has known, calling him a 'funny, surly, hard-working man whose tough exterior hid a huge and generous heart.' He noted that Muñoz helped many people through difficult times and was a devoted son, brother, uncle, a great baker, and a caring friend.
Kimmel added a joke: 'No man saw me in my underpants more.' Kimmel stated the show will miss Muñoz deeply as he joins his beloved parents. His post included photos of Muñoz dressing the host, including in a Snow White costume.
Muñoz joined Jimmy Kimmel Live! in 2002 and won a Creative Arts Emmy in 2010 for outstanding costumes for a variety, music program, or special. He also styled Kimmel for the 90th Oscars in 2018.
Before that, he earned bachelor's and master's degrees in costume design for stage and screen at New York University. He designed costumes for CBS's Late Show with David Letterman until 2000 and worked on projects including Champions of Magic 2, Can't Stop Dancing, and Popstars, as well as styling wardrobe for Fear Factor.
His death is the second in the Kimmel family circle in under a year; Cleto Escobedo III, leader of the show's house band and Kimmel's childhood friend, died last November aged 59. Colleagues and fans across the entertainment industry have expressed deep grief over the sudden loss of the veteran designer, remembering his immense contributions to television fashion and stage productions.
Throughout his illustrious career, Muñoz earned a reputation for precision, creativity, and an unmatched work ethic that elevated every broadcast he touched, cementing his legacy in late-night television history. As tributes continue to pour in, the entire production crew of Jimmy Kimmel Live! is preparing to honor his memory in upcoming broadcasts, celebrating a life dedicated to artistry and friendship.
Muñoz's family has requested privacy during this difficult time as they mourn the loss of a remarkable individual whose warmth and brilliance touched countless lives.