Artem Chigvintsev, a 13-season “Dancing With the Stars” veteran, was arrested Thursday on suspicion of felony domestic violence, according to the Napa County arrest database.
TMZ reported that injuries were involved.
Chigvintsev and former WWE wrestler Nikki Garcia, were partnered on “DWTS” Season 25 in 2019, when she was still Nikki Bella. They have been married since 2022, have a son together and live in Yountville.
It is unclear whether Garcia, 40, was involved.
Representatives for Chigvintsev and Garcia did not respond immediately to The Times’ requests for comment on Thursday.
Chigvintsev was released from custody at 2:18 p.m. Thursday on $25,000 bail, according to the Napa County release database.
Three days ago, Garcia posted romantic video and photos, mostly from her wedding to Chigvintsev, with Haley Reinhart’s version of “Can’t Help Falling in Love” as the soundtrack. Her message wished her husband a happy wedding anniversary.
“This song is our love story,” Garcia wrote Monday on Instagram. “I’ll never forget where I was when I asked Jesus about Artem. Having a conversation with He & God. How my feelings felt too soon. It all felt too fast. And then this song came on. And that’s when I knew that I was falling in love with him and that it was all meant to be.
“Happy anniversary my love, can’t see my life with out you,” Chigvintsev wrote to Garcia in his own anniversary post the same day. “You are my everything.”
The pro dancer, who auditioned unsuccessfully for the first season of “So You Think You Can Dance” and later appeared on the U.K.’s “Strictly Come Dancing,” was born in the former Soviet Union and moved to the U.S. in 2003. He was not expected to return for the next season of “DWTS,” Page Six reported.
The Arrest
Nikki Garcia's Reaction
As of this writing, Nikki Garcia has not made any public statements regarding the arrest of her husband. However, three days prior to the arrest, Garcia posted a romantic message on Instagram celebrating their wedding anniversary. In her message, she shared how their love story unfolded and expressed her deep affection for Chigvintsev.
The Background of the Relationship
Artem Chigvintsev and Nikki Garcia met while filming the 25th season of “Dancing With the Stars” in 2017. During that time, Garcia was still known as Nikki Bella.
After Bella ended her engagement to WWE star John Cena in 2018, she and Chigvintsev began dating in January of 2019. The couple married in 2022 and have a four-year-old son together, Matteo.
Chigvintsev's Career on 'Dancing With the Stars'
Chigvintsev has been a prominent figure on “Dancing With the Stars” for thirteen seasons. His career on the show spans almost a decade, beginning in 2014. He has been a consistent presence on the show, with only a couple of seasons absent.
The Future of Chigvintsev on 'DWTS'
Following the arrest, there has been speculation surrounding Chigvintsev’s future on “Dancing With the Stars”. Some sources report that he is not expected to return for the upcoming season, but this is yet to be confirmed officially.
The Aftermath
This arrest has sparked numerous conversations surrounding the complexities of domestic violence and the impact on those involved. It remains crucial to remember that domestic violence affects individuals from all walks of life, regardless of their profession, wealth, or fame.
A Moment of Reflection
As this situation unfolds, it is essential to recognize the importance of offering support and resources to victims of domestic violence. If you or someone you know needs help, please contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 or visit their website at thehotline.org.
This story is ongoing, and new information will be shared as it becomes available.
