Gleb Savchenko addressing his custody battle after a Los Angeles court hearing
Reality TV

Gleb Savchenko Breaks Silence Following Drama-Filled Custody Court Date With Ex Elena Samodanova

The 'Dancing With the Stars' pro says he just wants to protect his daughter as his high-stakes legal fight gets pushed back.

By Rae MitchellPublished Updated 1 min read

Gleb Savchenko isn't stepping back from his fierce custody fight. The *Dancing With the Stars* veteran arrived at a Los Angeles courthouse alongside his legal counsel, Mark Karney, to advocate for his 15-year-old daughter, Olivia. Although the scheduled session was ultimately delayed, the 42-year-old ballroom dancer made his perspective explicit following the court appearance. Speaking after the brief proceeding, Savchenko acknowledged feeling disappointed by the hold-up but insisted he remains confident about the eventual outcome. "I feel frustrated, but I feel good because the truth always wins," the reality TV star stated, noting that his primary goal is ensuring Olivia can settle into a California high school while living under his roof. He added that he hopes both of his daughters can maintain a strong relationship, explaining that his driving motivation is simply trying to protect his child. ## Why are Gleb Savchenko and Elena Samodanova in court? The custody disagreement centers on major geographical differences between the former spouses. According to reports, 15-year-old Olivia wishes to reside full-time with her father in Los Angeles to complete her high school education. However, Samodanova is disputing the move. The 43-year-old dancer believes their teenage daughter should stay at her primary residence in Hong Kong instead of relocating across the globe. ## How many kids do Gleb Savchenko and Elena Samodanova have? The exes, who parted ways after years of marriage, share two children together: 15-year-old Olivia and 9-year-old Zlata. As the court proceedings drag on, Savchenko voiced optimism that a resolution will come together quickly so both girls can enjoy a peaceful routine without ongoing friction between their parents. Both parties now await their next scheduled court appearance to determine where Olivia will ultimately attend school.

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People also ask

Who is Gleb Savchenko fighting for custody with?
Gleb Savchenko is locked in an ongoing legal custody battle with his ex-wife, fellow professional dancer Elena Samodanova.
Where does Gleb Savchenko's daughter want to live?
According to reports, Savchenko's 15-year-old daughter Olivia wants to move to Los Angeles to live with her father and attend a local high school, rather than remain in Hong Kong with her mother.