QUICK TAKES - Feb. 13, 2009

A bit of a mystery has emerged on “American Idol.”

Viewers saw Joanna Pacitti make it through the Green Mile on Wednesday night, but after the show aired, the official Fox news release announcing the top 36 contestants didn’t list her. Instead there was this note:

“It has been determined that Joanna Pacitti is ineligible to continue in the competition. ‘American Idol’ contestant Felicia Barton has replaced Ms. Pacitti as part of the Top 36.”

No explanation was offered. A source close to the show told The Times that Pacitti was disqualified to avoid the appearance of impropriety. She had been considered one of the favorites this season because of her previous singing experience.

Pacitti, 24, could not be reached for comment.