From ‘American Idol’ Finalist to ‘America’s Got Talent’ Contender—13 Years Later, a Comeback Begins

In the age of reality television talent shows, no two journeys are ever alike. One may come from nothing, have their moment, and become one of the world's biggest pop stars. Some can hit the big time on their first try and then fall into oblivion when the season is over. Then some face rejection and then find their own path to stardom. No matter how they do it, their personal journey is something that is just that.

When Jessica Sanchez appeared on Season 11 of American Idol, she shot to the top of the pack, becoming an early frontrunner to win. Known for her powerful voice and sweet disposition, it looked like a surefire victory. But, in the time of Vote for the Worst, she was shockingly defeated by a talented "WGWG." Though Phillip Phillips found some success following his victory, it was a blow to Jessica Sanchez. She continued on her own path, but the rejection of the voters put her in some hiding. Until now.

Where In the World Was Jessica Sanchez?

In 2012, American Idol introduced Jessica Sanchez to its fans, blowing the judges away with her audition. She soared through the competition, making it to live shows and killing it week after week. Whether it was her rendition of "I Will Always Love You" by Whitney Houston or Billy Joel's "Everybody Has a Dream," her ability to effortlessly showcase her instrument created an important connection with judges Randy Jackson, Jennifer Lopez, and Steven Tyler. But, as fate would have it, the Top 7 was not Jessica's week. She was set to be eliminated, but the judges, "without a doubt," used their "judges' save" to keep her in the competition. It was exactly what she needed, as it was the boost that launched her straight to the top. From there, she had her Idol moments. Many artists have attempted to sing "Bohemian Rhapsody," but Jessica Sanchez made Queen her own. And then, tackling "And I Am Telling You I'm Not Going," she made America know that she was there to stay. By the finale, she did everything she needed to do to win, delivering one of the best performances of all time with "The Prayer." Sadly, she came up short, becoming the season's runner-up. As she told Rolling Stone, "The only reason I really wanted to win was to break that guy reign."

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Following her time on American Idol, she released an album, "Me, You & the Music," performed "The Star Spangled Banner" for President Barack Obama and the first family at the White House Easter Egg Roll, had the official campaign song for Hillary Clinton's 2016 presidential campaign, and appeared on Glee as Frida Romero. She remained in the music scene, even heading to the Philippines to find some stardom there. But like many Idol hopefuls, the talent pool became oversaturated, and unless you were a diehard fan, Jessica Sanchez became another statistic. She didn't fade into oblivion, but she didn't receive the recognition her talent deserved. Her album underperformed. She was unable to catch the wave.

Jessica Sanchez Returns to America's Got Talent Season 20

Though many may have believed that American Idol was her first foray into the world of talent competitions, she tried her shot at stardom much sooner. First, it was Showtime at the Apollo in 2005. Then, it was Season 1 of America's Got Talent. As a young Filipino singer, she brought her sass to the stage. She was chosen for a Wildcard slot, despite her audition not making it to air. It was Brandy who saw the star in her. Sadly, that's where 11-year-old Jessica's AGT journey ended. With an array of cover songs and YouTube videos, it was the push she needed to get to the Idol platform. But again, that was it. Her pride in her culture and her fandom became her focus.

Now, to celebrate its triumphant 20th season, America's Got Talent is celebrating the past and the present by bringing back classic acts and old faces. Who is one of those old faces? Jessica Sanchez. As one of the highlighted auditioners, Jessica tells the judging panel of Simon Cowell, Howie Mandel, Sofía Vergara, and Mel B that she was on the show during Season 1. In turn, Sofía Vergara responds with, "After 20 years, this was a special moment." Perhaps just a hook to get us watching or the start of another run to the end, the next chapter of Jessica Sanchez is about to be written. America's Got Talent returns on Tuesday, May 27 at 8:00 PM ET on NBC. Previous seasons are available to stream on Peacock.