Some Ironton-area residents will be extra-interested in “American Idol” for at least one more week as they cheer for a performer with local ties.

Brent Keith Smith is a 29-year-old Blanchester, Ohio-native who has made it into the top 36 of FOX’s eighth season of the music competition show. Smith has several relatives in the Ironton area including uncle Ray and aunt Terri Rader. His grandparents are the late Eloise and Gene Webb.

Eagle-eyed viewers were able to spot Smith several times Wednesday night celebrating with other contestants before a few seconds of face time showed the brown haired, bearded singer had made it through. Smith wasn’t shown actually singing Wednesday but was pictured for several seconds at the end of the episode dancing.

Janiece Fields, Smith’s aunt, recently said that he used to visit Jo-Lin Nursing Home and sing for his grandmother and other residents.

Smith auditioned for Idol in Louisville, Ky., impressing all four judges with his rendition of Bad Company’s “Can’t Get Enough of Your Love.”

Smith is no stranger to reality-show competitions. He finished sixth on Nashville Star, the country version of American Idol.