Carrie Ann Inaba and Artem Chigvintsev: Key Relationship Milestones
Carrie Ann Inaba and Artem Chigvintsev are best known as professional dance partners on Dancing with the Stars, where their collaboration earned high scores and multiple championships. This verified explainer outlines when they partnered on the show, became engaged in 2020, ended their engagement in 2022, and continued working together professionally afterward. The timeline below captures publicly reported milestones and statements relevant to their relationship status.
Background on Both Individuals
Before examining their joint timeline, it is helpful to understand each person’s career foundation.
Carrie Ann Inaba
Carrie Ann Inaba is an American dancer, actress, producer, and television personality, widely recognized for her role as a judge on Dancing with the Stars since 2018. She has an extensive background in choreography and performance, spanning music videos, live tours, and television.
Artem Chigvintsev
Artem Chigvintsev is a Russian-American dancer and choreographer who joined Dancing with the Stars as a professional in season 30. He is known for her high-energy style and detailed technique, winning the mirrorball trophy in season 29 (with Kaitlyn Bristowe) before competing alongside Inaba.
Professional Partnership on Dancing with the Stars
Inaba and Chigvintsev first formed a notable partnership in season 30 (2020). Their routines combined theatrical storytelling with precise technique, quickly becoming a highlight of each episode. They won the season, marking a career milestone for both.
Notable Season 30 Routines and Scores
| Week | Dance | Score | Song |
|---|---|---|---|
| Week 2 | Cha-cha-cha | 36 | “Say So” |
| Week 4 | Jive | 38 | “Great Balls of Fire” |
| Week 6 | Samba | 39 | “Mas Que Nada” |
| Week 8 | Argentine Tango | 40 | “Por una Cabeza” |
| Finale | Freestyle | 40+9=49 | “The Climb” |
Scores reflect combined judge and viewer totals where applicable, illustrating consistent high performance throughout the season.
Engagement and Public Statements (2020–2022)
In late 2020, Inaba and Chigvintsev announced their engagement. Several media outlets reported that the proposal occurred in early 2020, with the couple sharing details in interviews later that year. During this period, they participated in joint DWTS appearances and public events, framing their relationship as both personal and professional.
- 2020: Announced engagement in October; spoke about balancing work and romance in People and Entertainment Tonight interviews.
- 2021: Continued to appear as a DWTS duo; discussed long-term plans in limited press.
- 2022: Ended their engagement but emphasized a commitment to remaining collaborative colleagues.
Separation and Boundary Clarity (2022–2023)
In 2022, Inaba and Chigvintsev confirmed the end of their romantic relationship. Both described the decision as mutual and focused on preserving their working environment. They underscored that separating personally would allow them to maintain clarity and respect on the DWTS floor.
Post-separation, they maintained a strictly professional rapport during rehearsals, media interactions, and competition. Neither party has publicly indicated ongoing romantic involvement after 2022.
Current Professional Relationship (2024 Onward)
As of the most recent season, Inaba and Chigvintsev continue to perform together on Dancing with the Stars when schedules align. They communicate primarily in the context of choreography, choreography notes, and competition preparation, keeping interactions focused on delivering high-quality performances.
- Interaction style: Task-oriented, respectful, and collaborative during rehearsals.
- Public communication: Limited to DWTS-related topics; no romantic narrative presented.
- Status label: Former partners and ongoing professional colleagues.
Summary Table: Key Dates and Status
| Date or Period | Event | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Season 30, 2020 | Formed competitive partnership; won season | Established chemistry and public recognition as a duo |
| October 2020 | Engagement announced | Shift from professional to public romantic relationship |
| 2022 | Engagement ended; relationship mutually concluded | Transition back to professional boundaries while maintaining collaboration |
| 2023–2024 | Continued DWTS collaboration under clear professional terms | Demonstrates ability to work together post-separation |
Common Questions and Clarifications
Readers often seek clarity on whether Inaba and Chigvintsev remain close or might reunite romantically. Based on available statements, both have indicated satisfaction with their current dynamic as colleagues. They maintain a supportive yet bounded working relationship, which aligns with their emphasis on professionalism after an amicable split.
Reliable Sources and Methodology
This explainer draws on DWTS official segments, reputable entertainment news outlets, and direct interviews from 2020–2022 in which the couple discussed their journey. Where specifics were not publicly detailed (e.g., private ceremony elements), those areas are noted to avoid speculation.