When people hear the name Cris Collinsworth, they immediately think of football fields, sportscasting booths, and Sunday Night Football. But behind the spotlight and the sound of his iconic commentary is a woman who has quietly shaped his world for decades — Holly Bankemper. While she may not often appear in front of cameras, Holly is an accomplished attorney, a devoted mother, and the steady foundation of the Collinsworth family. Her story is one of balance, dedication, and success both in her professional life and at home.
Quick Bio Information
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Full Name: Holly Bankemper
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Date of Birth: November 23, 1964
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Birthplace: Fort Thomas, Kentucky, USA
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Nationality: American
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Education: University of Cincinnati College of Law (Juris Doctor, 1988)
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Profession: Attorney
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Spouse: Cris Collinsworth (married June 3, 1989)
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Children: Austin, Ashley, Katie, Jac
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Residence: Fort Thomas, Kentucky
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Known For: Accomplished attorney, wife of sportscaster Cris Collinsworth, devoted mother and community figure
Early Life and Background
Holly Bankemper was born on November 23, 1964, in Fort Thomas, Kentucky, a charming community along the Ohio River. Growing up in this close-knit town gave her a strong sense of community and belonging. She attended Fort Thomas Highlands High School, where she not only excelled academically but also actively participated in extracurricular activities. Cheerleading was one of her passions, and it reflected her energetic and supportive personality. These early years showcased the qualities that would later define her: leadership, resilience, and dedication.
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Education: Path Toward Law
From an early age, Holly had a clear vision for her future. She pursued higher education at the University of Cincinnati College of Law, one of the region’s most respected institutions. Law school was not only where she sharpened her intellect and prepared for a career as an attorney, but it was also where she crossed paths with Cris Collinsworth. Holly graduated in 1988 with a Juris Doctor degree, ready to step into the world of law and make her own mark.
Legal Career and Professional Achievements
After law school, Holly Bankemper made a deliberate choice to return to her hometown of Fort Thomas, where she began her career as an attorney. She built her practice in general law and became a member of the Cincinnati Bar Association, establishing a reputation for professionalism and integrity. Though she has kept a relatively low public profile, her clients and community have long recognized her dedication to justice and fairness. For Holly, law has never just been a career — it has been a way to serve the community she grew up in, proving her commitment to both personal excellence and collective good.
Love Story: Meeting Cris Collinsworth
Holly’s story became intertwined with Cris Collinsworth’s while they were both at the University of Cincinnati. Cris had already begun transitioning from a career in football, where he played as a wide receiver for the Cincinnati Bengals, into sports broadcasting. Their connection was strong from the start, built on shared ambition and mutual respect. What began as a chance meeting in their college years blossomed into a lifelong partnership that would withstand the challenges of high-profile careers and the demands of family life.
Marriage and Family Life
Holly and Cris married on June 3, 1989, marking the beginning of a life filled with shared dreams, responsibilities, and triumphs. They chose to raise their family in Fort Thomas, Kentucky, staying close to Holly’s roots. Unlike many who are drawn toward big city lights, the Collinsworths valued the quiet, supportive environment of their hometown. Their marriage has endured more than three decades, a testament to their strong bond and shared values. Holly has always prioritized creating a stable and nurturing home environment, even while balancing her career as an attorney.
The Collinsworth Children
Together, Holly and Cris are parents to four children, each carving their own unique path. Their oldest, Austin Collinsworth, played football at Notre Dame before transitioning into a successful career in investment management. Ashley Collinsworth, a graduate of Harvard University, has pursued opportunities in business and entrepreneurship. Katie Collinsworth has built her career in digital distribution, contributing to media and entertainment industries. Their youngest, Jac Collinsworth, has followed closely in his father’s footsteps and has become a rising figure in sports journalism. The children’s diverse achievements reflect both Cris and Holly’s influence — a balance of discipline, ambition, and humility.
Life Beyond the Spotlight
Although she is married to a well-known sportscaster, Holly Bankemper has intentionally chosen to live a private life. Unlike many spouses of celebrities, she maintains a low presence in media and social platforms. Her focus has always remained on her family, her legal career, and her community. This choice speaks to her personality — strong, grounded, and uninterested in the fleeting glamour of fame. It is this quiet strength that has allowed Cris to thrive in the public eye while Holly ensures stability at home.
Community Involvement and Values
Holly’s connection to her hometown of Fort Thomas has remained strong throughout her life. By returning to practice law in the community that raised her, she not only built her career but also gave back in meaningful ways. Her values are rooted in service, dedication, and resilience. While she may not actively seek recognition for her work, her presence has had a lasting impact on her family, her clients, and her neighbors. Holly represents the kind of community-driven success that is both admirable and inspiring.
Net Worth and Lifestyle
While Cris Collinsworth’s net worth is often discussed in the media — estimated at over $25 million — Holly Bankemper’s financial success is tied to her own work as a respected attorney. Together, the couple enjoys a comfortable lifestyle, but they have chosen to remain grounded, living in Fort Thomas rather than relocating to larger entertainment hubs. Their financial stability reflects years of hard work, dedication, and wise decision-making. Yet despite their success, Holly’s lifestyle remains private and understated, further highlighting her preference for substance over spectacle.
Legacy as a Supportive Partner and Independent Professional
The story of Holly Bankemper is not one of living in someone else’s shadow. While she has supported her husband’s career as a broadcaster, she has simultaneously built her own identity as a successful attorney and dedicated mother. Her legacy is one of balance — excelling professionally while also ensuring her family thrives. Holly’s life is a reminder that strength is not always loud or visible; sometimes it is the steady, quiet force that enables others to shine.
Final Thoughts: The Unsung Strength Behind Cris Collinsworth
In the world of sports broadcasting, Cris Collinsworth is a household name. But behind his career stands Holly Bankemper, the woman who has balanced professional excellence with family devotion. From her early life in Kentucky to her respected legal career, her story is one of resilience, integrity, and love. Though she may not seek attention, Holly’s influence is undeniable — shaping not only her family’s success but also serving as an example of what it means to live a meaningful, grounded life.
FAQs About Holly Bankemper
Who is Holly Bankemper?
Holly Bankemper is an American attorney and the wife of sportscaster and former NFL player Cris Collinsworth. She is also a devoted mother and community figure.
When was Holly Bankemper born?
She was born on November 23, 1964, in Fort Thomas, Kentucky.
What does Holly Bankemper do for a living?
Holly is a practicing attorney specializing in general law and is a member of the Cincinnati Bar Association.
Where did Holly Bankemper go to school?
She attended Fort Thomas Highlands High School and later graduated from the University of Cincinnati College of Law in 1988.
When did Holly Bankemper marry Cris Collinsworth?
She married Cris Collinsworth on June 3, 1989.
Do Holly and Cris Collinsworth have children?
Yes, they have four children: Austin, Ashley, Katie, and Jac, all of whom have pursued diverse and successful careers.
Where does Holly Bankemper live now?
Holly and Cris Collinsworth live in Fort Thomas, Kentucky, where they raised their family and continue to be part of the local community.
