Monmouth County Singer Advances On American Idol, Another Leaves

MONMOUTH COUNTY, NJ — A Monmouth County singer has advanced to the Top 30 of American Idol, while another has made her exit from the show.

During Monday night’s episode, Colts Neck resident Jacquie Lee made it to the Top 30 of American Idol, while Freehold resident and Sea Girt police officer Julia Sienna Santiago made her exit.

In an online post, Santiago expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to be on the show and for those who supported her along the way.

“To say I am blessed is an absolute understatement. Beyond thankful for my family who have supported me since the beginning, every step of the way, and continue to push me,” Santiago said. “I am walking away with so many new memories and friends. Grateful to have made it to the top 60 in that Golden Room. All glory to God.”

• Read More: ‘A Fantastic Representation Of Every Woman’: NJ Cop Performs On American Idol

While Santiago has left American Idol, Lee is continuing her journey to the “Ohana Round” of the show alongside fellow NJ resident Jake Thistle, a Paramus native known for frequenting iconic parts of the Jersey music scene like the Stone Pony in Asbury Park.

During the Hollywood Week round of the show, Thistle stunned the judges and audience with his rendition of “Seventeen Going Under” by Sam Fender.

Though it wasn’t included as part of the Hollywood Week episodes, Santiago performed a cover of “Rescue” by Lauren Daigle, according to a report from the Asbury Park Press.

“You have actually survived Hollywood Week in Music City,” Judge Lionel Richie told the Top 30. “One of the most dynamic classes we have ever had.”

Now that Lee and Thistle have made it to the Top 30, they’ll go to Disney’s Aulani Resort in Hawaii to compete in the "Ohana Round," where judging will move from beyond the show’s regular judges to three groups: the idols, the family members, and industry experts.

American Idol airs on Mondays at 8/7c.

Previous Coverage

• ‘A Fantastic Representation Of Every Woman’: NJ Cop Performs On American Idol
• Bergen County Singer Jake Thistle Learns His Fate On 'American Idol'
• A ‘Bring-The-House-Down’ Voice: Colts Neck Singer Performs On American Idol