One of the two Maine women who qualified for this season of “American Idol” is a step closer to the coveted title.

The other is officially out of the running.

Jessica Cunningham, 24, of Portland was not seen on Thursday’s episode, but a FOX publicist confirmed that she won over the judges and is still in the competition.

FOX publicists also confirmed that Danielle Pease, 15, of Winthrop has been eliminated.

Thursday’s pre-recorded episode of “Idol” focused on the show’s Hollywood rounds, in which 300 people compete over several days for the 20 semifinalist spots. Because so many people are in the Hollywood rounds, not all of them are seen singing on the show, and not all of the eliminations are aired.

The next episode Wednesday will be another pre-recorded show featuring several dozen contestants, so it’s uncertain whether Cunningham will be seen.

The show’s 20 semifinalists will be announced the next night. After that, the weekly live competitions that “Idol” is known for will begin.

If Cunningham makes it that far, all of America will get to see her talent on a weekly basis.

Cunningham is a Bridgton native who has worked as a waitress, a bartender and a hairstylist, while continuing to be a singer.

She was on “Idol” last year and made it to the Hollywood rounds, getting eliminated just before the semifinalists were announced. She has auditioned for “Idol” seven times.

Pease is a high school student who until recently was in the Maine band Fyve. That band played some notable gigs, including one at Gillette Stadium in Foxboro, Mass.

Contacted through her Facebook page Thursday, Pease said she is restricted from talking about her experience on the show until later in the season.

Pease and Cunningham auditioned for this season of “Idol” in New Jersey in August. Episodes began airing on Jan. 19. The show’s winner will get a recording contract plus the coveted “American Idol” title.

Staff Writer Ray Routhier can be contacted at 791-6454 or at:

rrouthier@pressherald.com

 

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