Jessica Sanchez May Snag Leading Movie Role in ‘Miss Saigon’

Though she lost out to Phillip Phillips on ‘American Idol,’ Jessica Sanchez is still pretty victorious everywhere else. Following her recent record deal and rumors of a role on ‘Glee,’ the teen phenom is up for the lead role in the film adaptation of ‘Miss Saigon.’

Sanchez is in the running for the coveted part of Kim, a Vietnamese prostitute who falls in love with an American soldier during the Vietnam War. Sanchez has some very influential backers as well: Lea Salonga, who originated the role of Kim in London, then on Broadway, thinks she’s a great choice.

“If she’s the one that they’ve chosen, or she’s somebody in serious consideration, then that’s a good thing,” Salonga told Broadway.com. “We all know she’s talented, we all know she’s actually quite beautiful.” True that! Another good point for Sanchez? Kim’s songs in the film are the pop ballads that the petite powerhouse does best.

The film adaptation has reportedly been in the works since 2009, which fellow ‘Glee’ guest Charice also rumored to be up for the lead, so Sanchez is facing some stiff competition. We know the gal can sing her little butt off, now it’s just a matter of seeing whether she can act, too.

Watch Jessica Sanchez Perform ‘I’ll Be There’ on ‘American Idol’