
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.
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