Artem Chigvintsev & Nikki Garcia Faced Marriage Challenges for a While

After Artem Chigvintsev’s domestic violence arrest this week, fans of Dancing With The Stars worldwide could hardly believe the news. However, according to those closest to the couple, this situation isn’t entirely unexpected.

In the aftermath of the arrest news, sources close to the couple are reportedly speaking 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, finally boiling over in this unfortunate event.

Nikki and Brie Garcia host The Nikki and Brie Show, where their husbands often appear as guests. While no marriage is perfect, Nikki and Artem always seemed amicable on the show. But behind the scenes, it appears to be a different story.

After news of Artem Chigvintsev’s domestic violence 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 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.

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.

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.

Source: TMZ, The Nikki and Brie Show