Cheryl Burke, a familiar face on ‘Dancing With the Stars,’ has always been outspoken about her experiences and relationships with her fellow dancers. Recently, she found herself in a difficult position when addressing the shocking news of her former castmate, Artem Chigvintsev‘s arrest.
Cheryl and Artem share a long history, having competed against each other in ten seasons of the hit ABC show. They even lived together at one point in Cheryl’s family home in the Bay Area.
Cheryl Burke Gets Emotional About Her Ex-Castmate’s Arrest
On her podcast, ‘Sex, Lies, and Spray Tans‘, Cheryl Burke took a moment to address the situation and expressed how baffled she is. “It’s so shocking,” she said.
“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,” she added.
Related: Cheryl Burke Shares Her Shocking Story Of Abuse Since Childhood
“Domestic violence is serious,” Burke cut in. She continued, “I just hope his kid’s okay. I hope everyone, his wife, and this is kind of shocking still for me.”
Kristyn Burtt, Cheryl’s guest on the podcast, also shared in her shock. “You guys are co-workers, you’re friends, longtime friends. And even though it’s not directly impacting season 33, because he was not going to be on the show this season, it still impacts everyone involved with the show who has known him for a long time,” Burtt emphasized.
Artem Chigvintsev’s Arrest Was A Shock For The DWTS Community
Chigvinstev, who has been with the show since season 19, was arrested in Napa County, California, on accusations of domestic violence against his spouse on August 29. It’s not yet confirmed if his wife Nikki is the spouse in concern.
With his wife, Nikki Garcia, a former WWE star, and their young son Matteo, many are concerned about what’s next for this family.
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Cheryl couldn’t help but voice the disbelief that many in the DWTS community are feeling. “Domestic violence and Artem don’t really…” she began, before trailing off. “That’s why it’s so shocking,” she concluded.
In his most recent Instagram post, Artem shared a picture of the couple walking down the aisle and wrote, “Happy anniversary my love, can’t see my life with out you. You are my everything.”
