Johnny Weir, a former figure skating star, became a media sensation for his commentary during the Sochi Olympics. Now he is in the news for another reason: a recent announcement that he had recently initiated divorce proceedings against his husband of two years, Victor Weir-Voronov.
The pair appeared in a courtroom in New Jersey in early March where Weir faced allegations of domestic violence. Weir-Voronov did not pursue his assertion that Weir had bitten him; his spokeswoman says Weir had asked Weir-Voronov to dismiss the charges.
Weir alleged emotional abuse, saying his husband had tried to isolate him from his friends and family. The skating commentator and notable fashion industry personality has told the press that he was also the victim of physical violence in the relationship.
The high-asset divorce also promises to be high-profile, with both parties taking to Twitter in recent days to announce the split.
The media attention and emotions may make the end of a marriage more challenging. This could potentially lead to a difficult and drawn-out divorce case. Weir says his work was the sole financial support of his husband, who did not work, so spousal support may be part of the divorce negotiations, in addition to property division and other divorce legal issues.
Both sides will undoubtedly work with lawyers who specialize in family law to help them navigate the divorce proceedings. Expert representation will help ensure each party’s interests are protected during what may be a challenging – and public – divorce process.
Source: Today, “Johnny Weir on split: Damage from my marriage was ‘crippling’,” Eun Kyung Kim, March 21, 2014
