Artem Chigvintsev, a former star of the popular UK dance show Strictly Come Dancing, has been arrested in the United States on suspicion of domestic violence. The 42-year-old Russian professional dancer was booked into Napa County Jail in California on Thursday morning, according to jail records.
Chigvintsev, who gained fame for his victory on Strictly Come Dancing in 2010 with celebrity partner Kara Tointon, has been a prominent figure in the American dance scene as well. Since 2014, he has been a regular performer on Dancing With The Stars, the US counterpart of the British series.
The arrest follows allegations under section 273.5(a) of the California Penal Code, which pertains to “corporal injury to spouse.” This statute addresses traumatic injury inflicted upon a current or former spouse, cohabitant, or fellow parent in an act of domestic violence. The offense can be charged either as a misdemeanor or a felony, with the latter carrying a maximum sentence of up to four years in prison.
Details regarding the involvement of Chigvintsev’s current wife, Nikki Bella, a former WWE star, remain unclear. The couple, who met on Dancing With The Stars in 2017, married in 2022 and have a son together. Nikki Bella, now known as Nikki Garcia after leaving wrestling, has not commented publicly on the situation.
The arrest has brought attention to Chigvintsev’s personal life, overshadowing his professional achievements. As the investigation continues, further updates are expected regarding the legal proceedings and any potential impact on his career.
