Professional dancer and choreographer Elena Samodanova continues to redefine her career and personal life in late 2025, focusing on her thriving dance studio and navigating the complexities of co-parenting following her high-profile separation from former husband, *Dancing with the Stars* pro Gleb Savchenko. The Russian-born star, who has carved out a significant career both in front of and behind the camera, has recently made headlines for her efforts to update the custody agreement for her two young daughters, a detail that brings a fresh, current focus to her life.
As of December 2025, Samodanova is fully immersed in running her Los Angeles-based studio, an enterprise that has become the centerpiece of her professional identity. Her commitment to the world of ballroom and Latin dance remains absolute, showcasing an independent spirit and a formidable business acumen that has only grown stronger since her highly publicized divorce was finalized.
Elena Samodanova: Full Biography and Professional Profile
Elena Samodanova is a highly respected figure in the international ballroom and Latin dance community, known for her sharp choreography, judging expertise, and entrepreneurial spirit. Her career spans multiple continents, establishing her as a true global professional.
- Full Name: Elena Samodanova (Russian: Елена Самоданова)
- Date of Birth: October 3, 1984
- Age (as of 2025): 41 years old
- Birthplace: Moscow, Russia
- Nationality: Russian
- Profession: Professional Dancer, Choreographer, Dance Producer, Television Personality, Dance Studio Owner
- Notable Roles: Professional Partner/Dancer on *Dancing with the Stars* (Australia), Judge on *Dancing with the Stars* (Russia), Co-Owner/Sole Owner of Pro Dance L.A. (Los Angeles).
- Marital Status: Divorced (from Gleb Savchenko)
- Ex-Husband: Gleb Savchenko (Married 2006; Separated 2020; Divorce Finalized October 2021)
- Children: Two daughters, Olivia Savchenko (born November 1, 2010) and Zlata Savchenko (born August 2017)
- Estimated Net Worth: $1 Million - $5 Million (Approx.)
The Ongoing Custody Battle: Seeking Primary Custody in 2025
While the divorce from fellow professional dancer Gleb Savchenko was finalized in October 2021, the legal proceedings surrounding their two daughters, Olivia and Zlata, have continued well into 2025. This custody arrangement has been the most recent and significant development in Elena Samodanova’s public life, capturing media attention and reflecting her fierce dedication as a mother.
In recent court filings, Samodanova has reportedly sought to alter the former couple's parenting plan, requesting primary physical custody of her daughters. This move signals a significant shift in the co-parenting dynamic that has been in place since the split. The initial divorce proceedings were contentious, with Samodanova also seeking spousal support at the time.
The core intention behind Samodanova’s legal move is centered on ensuring stability and a consistent environment for Olivia and Zlata. The two girls are reportedly dedicated to their own dance training and school commitments in Los Angeles. The legal back-and-forth highlights the personal struggles that often accompany the end of a long marriage, even for high-profile celebrities, as they transition from a couple to co-parents.
This situation puts a spotlight on the financial aspects of the divorce as well. During the initial separation, it was revealed that Samodanova was seeking spousal support, citing her ex-husband’s substantial income from his long-running role on the popular reality show, *Dancing with the Stars* (DWTS).
Building a Dance Empire: The Pro Dance L.A. Success Story
Post-divorce, Elena Samodanova has poured her energy into her professional life, most notably as the sole owner and operator of Pro Dance L.A. in West Hollywood, California. The studio, which she and Gleb Savchenko initially opened together, has become a symbol of her independence and a thriving hub for the Los Angeles dance community.
Pro Dance L.A. offers a wide range of dance classes, workshops, and events, catering to both professional dancers and aspiring students. Samodanova’s personal involvement in the studio's operations ensures a high standard of professional instruction, drawing on her extensive experience as an international professional dancer and a judge on the Russian edition of *Dancing with the Stars*.
The 2025 Christmas Showcase and Studio Activities
In late 2025, the studio is a hive of activity, with a major focus on the annual Christmas Showcase. This event, scheduled for December 21, 2025, serves as a significant date on the studio's calendar, demonstrating Samodanova's commitment to creating a performance-driven environment for her students. The continued success of Pro Dance L.A. solidifies her position not just as a talented choreographer, but as a successful dance producer and entrepreneur.
Samodanova leverages her industry connections, including fellow dancers like Alan Kvartin, who has been spotted teaching classes at the studio, ensuring a roster of high-caliber instructors. Her work at the studio is a direct continuation of her global career, which included being a professional partner on the Australian version of *DWTS* and a judge on the Russian version.
Elena’s Current Outlook: Independence and Future Projects
Elena Samodanova’s life in 2025 is characterized by a strong sense of independence and forward momentum. While the legal matters concerning her daughters remain a central focus, her professional career is on a firm footing. She has successfully transitioned from the role of a supportive spouse to a powerful, single business owner and mother.
Her focus on her daughters, Olivia and Zlata, is paramount. Despite the legal disagreements, Samodanova and Savchenko have occasionally managed to put aside their differences to take family vacations, demonstrating a commitment to co-parenting their children.
The future for Samodanova is bright, rooted in the world of professional dance. Her expertise in Ballroom Dancing and Latin Dance remains highly sought after, and her status as a former *Dancing with the Stars* judge gives her significant authority in the industry. As she continues to expand the reach and influence of Pro Dance L.A., she is cementing her legacy not just as a former celebrity spouse, but as a formidable and respected figure in her own right.
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