The support of fans from Maine and around the country has helped propel Gagnon to the final seven contestants. She’ll next appear on the show Sunday.
Ray Routhier
Staff Writer
Ray Routhier has written about pop culture, movies, TV, music and lifestyle trends for the Portland Press Herald since 1993. He is continually fascinated with stories that show the unique character of Maine’s people and places. He’s written about why so many businesses use the made-up word “Mainely” in their names, how you can trace Portland’s history through its various smells and why Mainers lament the loss of Portland-made B&M baked beans. He’s interviewed a wide variety of filmmakers, actors, musicians and authors, including Patrick Dempsey, Tony Shalhoub, Richard Russo, Tess Gerritsen, Tony Bennett, Anna Kendrick, and Stephen King. His passions, besides writing, include baseball history, old movies and “Jeopardy!” A native of Manchester, New Hampshire, he graduated with a degree in political science from the University of New Hampshire. He lives in South Portland with his wife and two children.
Pizza Joint becomes latest Portland-area business to feel a lot of love … a little too late
After the foodie favorite announced the closure of its Portland and South Portland shops, people were lining up to place orders. But one can’t help but ask: Where were those customers before?
How you can help Julia Gagnon advance on ‘American Idol’
Voting for American Idol takes place during each coast-to-coast live show and closes during the final commercial break.
From our archives: On the 25th anniversary of ‘Carrie,’ a look at Stephen King’s influential career
By 1999, the prolific Maine author had made a significant impact on the publishing and film industries, not to mention his readers.
Stephen King’s 50-year career has inspired a generation of writers and teachers
Once thought of as a pop culture phenomenon, the Maine author is now studied by academics and aspiring writers.
I’ve covered Stephen King for most of his career. Here’s what I’ve learned.
On the 50th anniversary of King’s first book, ‘Carrie,’ features writer Ray Routhier shares some tales from his more than 25 years of covering the author for the Press Herald.
Looking for ways to watch the eclipse? We’ve got you (totally) covered.
All you need to know about when, where and how to see the April 8 solar eclipse, plus events happening from southern Maine to Aroostook County, starting this week.
If you’re headed to Rangeley for the eclipse, here’s what else to do while you’re there
There are lots of eclipse activities, but also places to shop, dine and explore nature.
Hundreds rally in Portland, calling for immediate and permanent cease-fire in Gaza
Maine Coalition for Palestine calls on Maine’s state and federal representatives to push for an end to the violence that began in October.
When can you watch Cumberland singer Julia Gagnon on ‘American Idol’ next?
Gagnon’s platinum ticket allows her to skip the first round of Hollywood Week competition, airing Sunday. But on Monday’s show, she’ll likely find out if she’s one of the top 24 singers competing for the rest of the season.