Trigger Warning: This article contains discussions of alleged domestic violence in which a child was present.
I was shocked when I learned that Artem Chigvintsev had been arrested on August 29, 2024. The charge? Domestic violence. The former Dancing with the Stars pro was arrested in Napa, California. Even though the victim wasn’t identified, Nikki Garcia, Artem’s wife, previously requested privacy.
In 2022, Nikki and Artem tied the knot in Paris. The couple share one son, 4-year-old Matteo. Unfortunately, on August 29, 2024, Artem was charged with “acts of violence against a spouse or other cohabitant.” He was released after posting $25,000 bail.
Nikki Garcia and Artem Chigvintsev are no longer living together
Obviously, Nikki is moving forward with her life and doing what is best for her son. She reportedly checked out divorce attorneys after Artem’s arrest. An insider told US Weekly, “They are not living under the same roof. Friends believe they will end up splitting.”
The source added, “Nikki, [her sister] Brie [Garcia], and their family are too strong to let this slide and to let this kind of behavior be OK, especially around a child.” At least Nikki has a strong support system behind her.
Eventually, the District Attorney will decide what charges, if any, Artem will face. First, his office needs to review all the evidence. Additionally, the DWTS alum will be arraigned on November 4.
Despite this marital turmoil, Nikki continued working. She co-hosted the competitive eating contest, Chesnut vs Kobayashi: Unfinished Beef on Netflix. According to another source, “Nikki was excited for her job and seemed happy.” She also didn’t sport her wedding ring at the event. I truly hope that both parties can keep everything civil for their son’s sake.
Season 33 of Dancing with the Stars, minus Artem, premieres on September 17 at 8/7c on ABC and Disney+.
If you or someone you know is affected by any of the issues raised in this story, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 or chat at thehotline.org.
TELL US – IS IT A GOOD IDEA THAT NIKKI AND ARTEM ARE LIVING SEPARATELY? DO YOU THINK THEY WILL REMAIN CIVIL AS THEY MOVE FORWARD?
