AceShowbiz - Jessica Vosk, now a renowned Broadway star, recalls her failed "American Idol" audition, which left a lasting impact on her career trajectory. In a recent interview with NBC News Daily, Vosk shared how a stinging comment from judge Simon Cowell shaped her professional journey.

"I walked in. I sang Heart's 'Alone,' " Vosk recounted, adding, "Simon looked at me and said, 'That was pathetic.' " For Vosk, then a college student, the experience was a defining moment, leading her to adopt a more reserved approach to her aspirations.

Vosk noted that "American Idol" was her "first foray into reality TV" and one that significantly influenced her. "I remember saying to myself, 'Don't cry on camera. Don't cry on camera,' " she said, recalling her attempt to maintain composure after leaving the audition room. This harsh rejection marked a pivotal point, contributing to her decision to step away from the limelight temporarily.

After graduating from college, Jessica took a detour from her musical ambitions, working in finance on Wall Street for three years. During this period, she excelled in the corporate world but struggled with panic attacks. The stress and yearning for her true passion eventually led her to return to the world of music and theater.

Reflecting on her journey, Vosk said, "I did really well when it came to working in the corporate world. But I did, I put everything musical right down." The call of the stage, however, was too strong to ignore, prompting her eventual pivot back to her passion for performance.

Today, Vosk is celebrated for her portrayal of Elphaba in the renowned musical "Wicked" and has expanded her repertoire with new roles, including a recent stint in Hell's Kitchen. Her experience illustrates how setbacks can often redirect us toward our true calling, even when the path seems unexpectedly winding.

Like Vosk, other notable artists have faced early rejections only to achieve significant fame later on. For instance, country star Maren Morris shared a photo of her "American Idol" audition ticket, revealing she didn't make it past the first round. Such stories underscore the resilience required in the entertainment industry and the importance of perseverance.

In addition to her theatrical accomplishments, Vosk continues to pursue her musical interests. She recently released a Christmas album titled "Sleigh," which she discussed with Us Weekly, emphasizing the importance of authenticity in festive music. "There's love, there's authenticity, there's just a feeling of memory," she said, expressing how music transports her back to her childhood.

Jessica Vosk's journey from Wall Street to Broadway serves as a powerful reminder that initial failures can often be the stepping stones to success, inspiring young artists to stay true to their passions despite setbacks.