After Artem Chigvintsev’s domestic violence arrest this week, Dancing With The Stars fans around the world could hardly believe the news. But according to those who know the couple best, a situation like this isn’t the most surprising news.
In the aftermath of the arrest news, sources close to the couple are reportedly speaking up to the press. Some insiders indicate that Artem and his wife Nikki Garcia have had problems for years. Tensions have been escalating for a while and they finally boiled over.
Artem Chigvintsev & Nikki Garcia Allegedly Always Had A Complex Relationship
Nikki and Brie Garcia host The Nikki and Brie Show, where their husbands are often guests. No marriage is perfect, but Nikki and Artem always seemed to be amicable on the show together.
But behind the scenes, it’s reportedly an entirely different story.
After news of Artem Chigvintsev’s domestic violent charges broke, those close to the couple allegedly told TMZ it’s not the biggest surprise. According to the 911 call, Nikki was throwing shoes at her husband, who called for emergency services. Artem called 911 back shortly after and requested they not come, but the police were required to follow up anyway.
When the police arrived, they found injuries on a victim, unconfirmed but widely believed to be Nikki Garcia, prompting Artem’s arrest.
“Sources with direct knowledge tell TMZ … Artem and Nikki’s close friends, including their former DWTS cast and crew members, are not entirely shocked by Artem’s claims Nikki threw shoes at him during a heated exchange,” TMZ writes.
The publication shares that those within their inner circle found the news of Artem’s domestic violence charges, “Shocking but not shocking.”
However, former DWTS pro Cheryl Burke said she found the allegations incredibly upsetting. This wasn’t the Artem she knew throughout their professional dance career. Additionally, many DWTS viewers are shocked and appalled to learn he was involved in an incident like this.
This Is Reportedly The First Time Physical Violence Became A Problem
Allegedly, those close to the couple only knew about explosive verbal altercations between Artem and Nikki. Up until Thursday’s arrest, no one reportedly knew about any physical violence.
TMZ also reports that Nikki Garcia is in the Napa home with their son Matteo. Artem Chigvintsev is reportedly staying elsewhere. In the wake of the incident, Nikki Garcia has asked for privacy and respect while her family navigates this devastating issue.
Check back soon for more information on this developing story.
Help is out there if you or someone you know is impacted by domestic violence. Get in touch with the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or text START to 88788.
Nikole Behrens is a 2017 graduate of Ball State University where she finished with a degree in creative writing and a minor in Japanese. Today she is a professional writer for various companies and really enjoys contributing to TV Shows Ace.