Top-rated TV talent show 'American Idol' narrowed its list of contestants to 12 on Thursday, sending home sassy 18-year-old Danny Noriega and retaining former male stripper David Hernandez.
"Idol" is the No. 1 US television program and has launched the singing careers of pop star Kelly Clarkson and country singer Carrie Underwood, among others. Winning a spot among the coveted final 12 is a young performer's step toward stardom.