Artem Chigvintsev Opens Up About How Domestic Violence Arrest and Divorce Affected His Life
Artem Chigvintsev, known for his appearances on Dancing With the Stars, recently shared the harrowing impact of his domestic violence arrest, revealing how it shattered his life, especially his relationship with ex-wife Nikki Garcia.
In a candid conversation on a podcast called “Glamorous Grind,” Chigvintsev, 42, expressed how the incident had devastating consequences, despite the District Attorney dropping the charges due to lack of evidence. The public’s perception of him as guilty after his mugshot circulated added to the distress, highlighting a flaw in the justice system where innocence seems overshadowed by suspicion.
The fallout from the arrest led to Chigvintsev and Garcia filing for divorce a week later. With Garcia initially seeking full custody of their 4-year-old son, Matteo, and both parties obtaining restraining orders against each other, the situation seemed dire. However, as the legal proceedings progressed, they eventually reached a divorce settlement in November 2024, marking the end of their seven-year marriage.
Chigvintsev shared that while the divorce wasn’t his choice, he had to come to terms with the closure it brought. Expressing a desire to reunite and keep their family intact, the reality of the situation weighed heavily on the dancer. The emotional toll of not being able to see Matteo during the legal process was particularly distressing, emphasizing the anguish of being separated from his son against his will.
Despite the challenges he faced, Chigvintsev found solace in moving forward and embarking on a new chapter in his life. Reflecting on the ordeal, he acknowledged the importance of closure and acceptance, even when circumstances are beyond one’s control.
As Chigvintsev navigates the aftermath of his tumultuous past, he remains committed to rebuilding his life and focusing on the future. With a renewed sense of purpose and resilience, he continues to navigate the complexities of personal struggle and growth, striving for peace and stability in the face of adversity.