Tony-nominated actor Ethan Slater, best known for his breakout role in Wicked and as the title character in The SpongeBob Musical, recently reflected on one of the most challenging moments of his early career: a notoriously tough audition that left him questioning his future in acting. Speaking at his alma mater, Vassar College, during an interview on December 10, Slater offered an honest glimpse into the emotional rollercoaster of pursuing a career in theater.

The Audition That Shook Him

Slater, 33, recalled an early audition that didn’t go as planned. “Early on, I had an audition where I left the room—no specifics—but before the door closed, the director said, ‘Why did you even bring him in?’” Slater shared. The comment, blunt and dismissive, left a lasting impression on the young actor.

“I left that room thinking, ‘I’m never going to work,’” he admitted. At the time, he was just 23 years old and grappling with the harsh realities of professional auditions in Broadway theater. Reflecting now, Slater acknowledges that the negative experience, while painful, ultimately shaped his understanding of the casting process.

Learning from Experience

Years later, Slater’s perspective has evolved, particularly after he began participating in casting discussions himself. “Being on the other side has been enlightening,” he explained. “Now I realize, first of all, that comment was inappropriate. That’s on them. But it also probably wasn’t meant maliciously.”

The actor later discovered that he had simply been “20 years too young” for the role, a detail that helped him contextualize the rejection and move forward in his career.

Career Highlights Since the Audition

Despite early setbacks, Ethan Slater has enjoyed remarkable success on stage and screen. He made his Broadway debut in 2017 as SpongeBob SquarePants, earning a Tony Award nomination for Best Actor in a Musical. His performance as Boq in the film adaptation of Wicked and its sequel further cemented his place in the theater and film worlds.

Slater also showcased his versatility through television roles in series such as Elsbeth, Gen V, and The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, proving that resilience and dedication can turn early disappointments into future triumphs.

New Projects and Creative Ventures

In addition to acting, Slater has expanded into writing. He co-wrote the play Marcel on the Train with Marshall Pailet, which is set to premiere Off-Broadway at New York City’s Classic Stage Company in February 2026. In this production, Slater will portray the iconic French mime Marcel Marceau.

Previously, he co-wrote the musical Edge of the World with Nick Blaemire, which had a sold-out one-night concert performance, further highlighting his growing influence as a musical theater writer and performer.

Recognition and Awards

Returning to Vassar College for his interview, Slater was honored with the Young Alum Achievement Award, an accolade recognizing alumni under 10 years out of graduation who have made inspirational contributions in their fields. Slater graduated from Vassar in 2014 and has since become a notable example of perseverance in the competitive world of theater.

Reflecting on the Journey

Ethan Slater’s story underscores the challenges actors face in auditions and the resilience needed to succeed in Broadway and Off-Broadway productions. From a humiliating early audition to starring in one of Broadway’s most beloved musicals, Slater’s journey is a testament to persistence, talent, and the ability to turn setbacks into opportunities.

With Wicked: For Good now playing in theaters and Marcel on the Train premiering soon, Slater continues to captivate audiences while shaping his evolving career as both an actor and playwright. His candid reflections provide inspiration for aspiring performers navigating the highs and lows of the entertainment industry.