Artem Chigvintsev Eyes "DWTS" Comeback After Financial Setbacks

Artem Chigvintsev Eyes "DWTS" Comeback After Financial Setbacks


Artem Chigvintsev made an appearance on the guest list for "Dancing with the Stars" this week, but he’s got his eyes set on more than just a seat in the audience. The pro dancer is hopeful for a full comeback to the dance floor, his attorney Ilona Antonyan tells TMZ. Though "DWTS" producers haven't approached Artem about returning for the next season, he’d be thrilled to join the line-up if given the chance.

Artem, who was notably absent as a pro in Season 33, still maintains a strong bond with the show's producers, Ilona says. One executive producer even extended a personal invite for him to attend the 500th episode taping on Tuesday night, a gesture that underscores their positive relationship.

For Artem, dancing is a lifelong passion, but he’s also exploring new paths. Recently, he's taken up construction work, partly due to financial strains stemming from his August domestic violence arrest and ongoing divorce from Nikki Garcia (formerly Bella). These challenges reportedly led to a $100,000 dip in income, impacting his regular dance gigs, especially on weekends, and pushing him to seek out alternative work.

Despite the setbacks, Artem’s luck might be turning around. He reconnected with "DWTS" stars Peta Murgatroyd and Maksim Chmerkovskiy at this week’s taping, suggesting his rough patch could be fading. Fans could be in for a surprise, as a dance floor comeback may just be on the horizon for Artem.