Following Nikki Bella’s Request For Privacy Regarding Husband Artem Chigvintsev’s Arrest, Fellow Former Dancing With The Stars Pro Cheryl Burke Shares Her ‘Complete Shock’

Following Nikki Bella's Request For Privacy Regarding Husband Artem Chigvintsev’s Arrest, Fellow Former Dancing With The Stars Pro Cheryl Burke Shares Her 'Complete Shock'

As a gamer who has grown up with the magic of reality TV, especially Dancing with the Stars, I must say that the recent news about Artem Chigvintsev’s arrest has left me stunned and saddened. The show has been a part of my life for so long, and I have watched these dancers grow from competitors to friends and family.


Recently, it was startlingly revealed that one half of a couple who gained fame on “Dancing with the Stars”, Artem Chigvintsev, was taken into custody due to allegations of domestic violence. Since then, Nikki Garcia – also recognized as Nikki Bella in the WWE – has appealed for public understanding, while Cheryl Burke, a former partner of Chigvintsev on “DWTS”, has shared her feelings about this troubling development.

Maksim Chigvintsev was taken into custody in Napa County, California on August 29 for allegedly committing domestic violence. This offense falls under California’s penal code which prohibits causing harm to a spouse, partner, or co-parent. He was later released on a $25,000 bond. Initially, TMZ reported that the arrest took place at the scene with injuries noted and the victim asking for complete anonymity.

Following Nikki Bella's Request For Privacy Regarding Husband Artem Chigvintsev’s Arrest, Fellow Former Dancing With The Stars Pro Cheryl Burke Shares Her 'Complete Shock'

Nikki Bella’s Request

Initially, when news broke out about Artem Chigvintsev’s arrest, the details of the victim remained undisclosed. However, Nikki Bella has neither confirmed nor denied being there or the specifics of the incident. Instead, she issued a subtle statement through her representative to PEOPLE magazine.

This is a private matter, and Nikki asks for privacy for her and her family at this time.

In 2019, they started dating when they were teamed up for Season 25 of “Dancing with the Stars.” Their son arrived in 2020. After her childbirth, Bella openly discussed their shared life, and they tied the knot in 2022.

Following Nikki Bella's Request For Privacy Regarding Husband Artem Chigvintsev’s Arrest, Fellow Former Dancing With The Stars Pro Cheryl Burke Shares Her 'Complete Shock'

Cheryl Burke Shares Thoughts

For quite some time, Cheryl Burke was a professional dancer on “Dancing with the Stars,” partnered with Artem Chigvintsev. Interestingly, she shared her thoughts about his arrest when it occurred, as information available at that time was limited to his arrest, bail, accusations of domestic violence, and the fact that he wasn’t anticipated to be in “DWTS” Season 33. On her podcast “Sex, Lies, and Spray Tans,” Burke discussed this event.

I hesitate to smile right now because of the current news [and] the headlines that have been rolling out, which I’m in complete shock about… Someone who I’ve grown up with, who actually we used to live together in my family’s home in the Bay area, Artem – it’s so shocking. I get kind of emotional. He was arrested… and domestic violence has been thrown in the mix. I’m not gonna say that he was charged or any of it, but allegedly domestic violence was the issue… My heart goes out to everyone involved. It’s just really hard for me, because he’s my family and I don’t know what to say here other than I hope everybody’s okay.

As a gamer, I can relate to Burke’s feelings after her exit from Dancing with the Stars. Although she mentioned that things between us (the show and her) might not worsen, it’s evident she isn’t on the same page regarding her DWTS family and long-time dance partners. With the limited information at hand, she didn’t jump to conclusions but did voice her hope that everyone is coping well under these circumstances.

As a devoted fan, I can’t predict if she’ll continue to express her thoughts on the show, but it’s clear that she’s been candid about her experiences on “Dancing with the Stars.” This often manifests as heartfelt messages to her former dance partners and reunions with the show’s previous host, Tom Bergeron. However, she hasn’t held back when it comes to voicing her discontent, such as explaining why she feels unsatisfied with her “DWTS” mirrorball trophies.

At present, just like Burke, we express our hope that everyone involved is safe following Artem Chigvintsev’s arrest on allegations of domestic violence. Our sympathies are with the affected family members and friends during this challenging period.

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2024-09-01 06:07