The 'Dancing With the Stars' pro dancer has removed his estranged wife, Nikki Garcia, from his Instagram bio following his recent arrest for domestic violence.
- September 7, 2024
AceShowbiz - In the wake of his domestic violence arrest, Artem Chigvintsev, 42, has updated his Instagram bio to remove his wife Nikki Garcia's (Nikki Bella) name. The change comes over a week after Chigvintsev was arrested on August 29 in Napa County, California.
Chigvintsev's bio previously included a link to Garcia's social media page with a bride emoji and a diamond ring emoji. However, it now reads, "Father to Matteo, DWTS Pro Dancer, Emmy Nominated Choreographer, DWTS Mirror Ball Winner, SCD Mirror Ball Winner."
According to sources, Chigvintsev is desperately trying to save his marriage with Garcia. However, Garcia reportedly believes divorce is the only option and is searching for a lawyer. Chigvintsev has been banned from seeing their four-year-old son Matteo without supervision.
The arrest reportedly occurred after Garcia threw shoes at her husband. It came days after the couple celebrated their second wedding anniversary. Chigvintsev was booked into the Napa County Jail on felony domestic violence charges but was released on a $25,000 bond.
Witnesses reported that Chigvintsev and Garcia dialed 911 twice – first to request assistance for an injury before calling back and asking paramedics not to come due to sounds of a domestic disturbance in the background.
Prior to the arrest, Garcia discussed her marriage on her podcast, "Nikki & Brie Show." She said she hoped to communicate with her husband about their relationship on their anniversary.
Chigvintsev has also been dropped from the upcoming season of "Dancing With the Stars." Sources say he is "in the fight of his life" to win Garcia back and clear his name. However, Garcia's twin sister, Brie Garcia (Brie Bella), reportedly wants her sister to leave Chigvintsev.
