DWTS Pro Savchenko Accuses Ex-Wife of Forcing Teen Daughter to Take Weight-Loss Pills

Key points

• Savchenko alleges Samodanova gave Olivia weight-loss pills without consulting him or obtaining medical supervision.
• The filing claims Samodanova made negative comments about Olivia’s body and used the silent treatment as punishment.
• Samodanova counters that she is protecting the children’s well-being and stability in their Hong Kong residence.
• A judge ruled that Samodanova has final say on medical and school decisions, while Savchenko retains confirmed visitation times.
• The dispute follows a July 2026 emergency custody filing where Savchenko claimed Samodanova 'abducted' the children by extending their stay in China.

Background

Savchenko and Samodanova divorced in October 2021 after a 2020 split, sharing joint custody of daughters Olivia (15) and Zlata (9). The custody battle escalated in 2022 when Samodanova sought full custody, and again in July 2026 when Savchenko filed for emergency relief, claiming Samodanova violated an agreement to return the children from Hong Kong after one year. Savchenko recently stepped away from DWTS Season 35 to focus on acting, citing personal matters including this ongoing legal dispute.

How outlets are covering it

Page Six and Us Weekly report on the new court filings detailing Savchenko’s allegations of medical neglect and emotional abuse, emphasizing the lack of medical oversight for the medication. The Economic Times notes that these claims are unproven allegations in a legal dispute, highlighting that Samodanova has not independently confirmed the specific claims of pill administration. Samodanova’s perspective, cited by Us Weekly and The Economic Times, frames her actions as protective measures for the children’s stability and education in Hong Kong, while accusing Savchenko of breaching agreements and interfering with her parental authority. Savchenko’s side, per Page Six, seeks to protect the children from conduct harmful to their health without changing their current residence.

Why it matters

This case highlights the complexities of international child custody and the legal boundaries of parental decision-making regarding minor health and education. It underscores how high-profile celebrity disputes can involve significant jurisdictional challenges, particularly when children reside in different countries, and raises questions about the enforcement of court orders across borders.

What to watch

The case will likely proceed through family court as Savchenko seeks to enforce protections against conduct harmful to the children’s health. Samodanova may respond to the specific allegations of weight-loss medication and punitive measures. The judge’s ruling on final decision-making authority for medical and school matters will likely guide future interactions between the parents, with potential further hearings if either party alleges violations of the custody agreement.