Arts & Entertainment

The Next American Idol? Darien Native's Journey Continues

Darien native and Downers Grove South grad Mariah Pulice continues her quest on American Idol. In her audition, she wowed judges with her performance of "Let it Be" and tale of battling anorexia.

Darien native Mariah Pulice is no stranger to adversity. During her audition on American Idol last month, the 19-year-old Downers Grove South grad shared the story of her struggle with anorexia. 

That story, and her stellar performance of The Beatles’ Let it Be, brought judge Mariah Carey to tears. All four judges gave emphatic yes votes and sent Pulice through to Hollywood. 

If you missed her audition, check it out here: Mariah Pulice performs "Let it Be" in her American Idol audition.

Find out what's happening in Darienwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Now begins American Idol's version of adversity: Hollywood Week (or, as some call it, hell week). Pulice will need to go against, and in some cases work with, the other contestants trying to be the next Idol. 

At the end of the week, only 20 men and 20 women will emerge. Last week, the men were cut down to just 28 left, and this week eight more will go home. 

Find out what's happening in Darienwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

American Idol premieres new shows at 7 p.m. CT on FOX this Wednesday and Thursday night. 

Now for some speculation: Does Mariah make it through or go home? She was great in her audition, but we saw a lot of strong auditioners get cut last week. 

I might be mistaken, but I also remember seeing Mariah crying in the preview for this week's Idol, though people cry for a lot of reasons on the show, good and bad. 

Last week, Mariah also posted this on her Facebook page: "Things turn out best for the people who make the best of the way things turn out." Maybe that's just an inspirational quote, or maybe it's her saying that going home won't keep her from singing. 

What do you think? Tell us in the comments. 

Darien Patch will post updates after we know Pulice's fate. In the meantime, you can follow her journey and send her supportive messages on Facebook and Twitter:


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