If you’re a longtime fan of Dancing With the Stars, then you know that Artem Chigvintsev has been quite an important character in the show since season 19. From winning the Mirrorball Trophy in 2020 with Kaitlyn Bristowe to coming in fourth place last year with Charity Lawson, Chigvintsev’s dancing skills have made it far on the show again and again.
So, of course, when Chigvintsev was arrested in August under allegations of domestic violence against his wife, Nikki Garcia, fans had all sorts of emotions. From pure shock to asking themselves ‘Does that mean he won’t be on DWTS anymore?” fans really went through it all.
Responding to that latter question, a new source for Life & Style is saying that his dancing days are officially behind him.
“His dancing career is over, and he is never returning to TV,” the source said. “The show’s producers have made it crystal clear — Chigvintsev is now persona non grata. This marks a permanent end to his long-standing presence on the series.”
“The entertainment industry shows no tolerance for such controversies!” the source added.
Prior to the news, sources told People that Chigvintsev wasn’t signed up for this year’s season 33 since before the arrest even happened. Perhaps he was on his way out either way?
Most recently on his case, charges against him were dropped and the pro dancer released his first statement since the incident.
“I am incredibly relieved and grateful that the domestic violence charges against me have been dropped,” the statement to People in September began. “This has been an extremely difficult time for me. I am thankful that the truth has prevailed.”
He then reiterated that his and Garcia’s 4-year-old son Matteo will remain his top priority. “My focus has always been and will always be, our son Matteo,” he said. “He is my world, and being his father is the greatest blessing in my life. All along, my main concern has been for him. I am committed to continuing to provide him with the love, support, and care he needs as we move forward.”
“I am hopeful that securing an equal custody arrangement will help us move on,” he continued. “I want to express my deepest gratitude to my family, friends, and legal team for standing by me during this challenging time. Your support has been invaluable, and I am thankful to everyone who believed in me and saw the truth for what it was. I look forward to moving past this chapter and focusing on what truly matters—continue being the best father I can be.”
Garcia has also released a brief statement of her own. “This is a private matter and Nikki asks for privacy for her and her family at this time,” the statement said. Garcia also filed for divorce on Sept. 11. The two had been married since 2022.
If you or someone you know has been the victim of emotional or physical violence, you can get help. To speak with someone who is trained to help with these situations, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 800.799.SAFE (7233) or chat online at www.thehotline.org/
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