When most sports fans hear the name Cris Collinsworth, they think of the charismatic NBC broadcaster and former Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver. Yet behind this accomplished athlete and commentator stands an equally talented, intelligent, and steady presence — Holly Bankemper. A lawyer by profession, philanthropist by passion, and the anchor of a high-profile family, Holly’s story is one of intellect, perseverance, and quiet grace.
Although she often shies away from the spotlight, her journey from a small-town Kentucky girl to a respected attorney and family matriarch offers an inspiring look into the life of a woman who built her own success while supporting one of sports media’s most recognized figures.
Early Life and Education
Holly Bankemper was born on November 23, 1964, in Fort Thomas, Kentucky, a small but close-knit community known for its strong educational values and family-oriented culture. Growing up in a nurturing environment, Holly showed early signs of ambition and academic excellence.
She attended Highlands High School, a school renowned in Northern Kentucky for both academics and athletics. There, she developed a balance between discipline and determination — qualities that would later define both her legal career and her approach to life.
After graduating from high school, Holly enrolled at the University of Kentucky, where she pursued her undergraduate studies. During her time there, she was a member of the cheerleading squad, demonstrating her school spirit and leadership on and off the field. Holly’s involvement in university life helped her build confidence and communication skills that would serve her well in her future legal career.
The Journey to Law
While many know her today as the wife of a famous NFL player, Holly Bankemper carved her own professional identity long before she became Mrs. Collinsworth. After completing her undergraduate degree in 1985, she pursued a Juris Doctor (J.D.) at the University of Cincinnati College of Law, graduating in 1988.
This decision marked a significant turning point in her life — both personally and professionally. It was during law school that she met Cris Collinsworth, then a young man transitioning from professional football into a new chapter of his own. Their paths intersected in Cincinnati, and what began as a friendship blossomed into a lifelong partnership built on mutual respect and admiration.
Upon completing her law degree, Holly was admitted to the Ohio Bar in 1988, officially launching her legal career. Her profile on Martindale.com lists her areas of focus as litigation and general practice, showcasing her versatility and commitment to justice.
Her colleagues describe her as meticulous, sharp, and highly ethical — qualities that have earned her respect among Cincinnati’s legal community. Despite the visibility that comes with being married to a public figure, Holly has maintained a low-profile legal practice, focusing on results rather than recognition.
Marriage to Cris Collinsworth: A Partnership Built on Balance
Holly Bankemper and Cris Collinsworth tied the knot on June 3, 1989, marking the beginning of a partnership that has endured decades of professional challenges, public scrutiny, and family life.
Cris, who had transitioned from being a standout receiver for the Cincinnati Bengals to a sports broadcaster for NBC, has often credited Holly with being the grounding force in his life. In interviews, he’s referred to her as the person who “keeps everything together” — the calm amid the chaos of television schedules, travel, and live sports coverage.
Together, they have built a home in Fort Thomas, not far from where Holly grew up. The decision to stay close to her roots reflects her deep sense of community and stability — a contrast to the fast-paced, media-driven lifestyle her husband leads.
Their marriage is often cited in sports media as an example of a strong and steady relationship, free from the drama that frequently surrounds high-profile couples. Holly’s ability to maintain her professional independence while supporting Cris’s demanding career highlights her confidence and self-assurance.
Family Life and Children
Holly and Cris Collinsworth are proud parents of four children: Katie, Ashley, Austin, and Jac Collinsworth. Each child has found success in their own pursuits, embodying the work ethic and integrity instilled by their parents.
Their son Jac Collinsworth has followed in his father’s footsteps and currently works in sports broadcasting. He has co-hosted programs for NBC Sports, including NFL coverage and Notre Dame Football, making him a familiar face to fans of the game.
Ashley Collinsworth, another of their children, was an accomplished track athlete at Harvard University, where she balanced academics and athletics with the same determination her parents exemplify.
Holly’s focus on education and discipline is reflected in all her children’s achievements. While Cris’s career often keeps him in the public eye, Holly has been the steady, behind-the-scenes influence ensuring their family remains grounded.
A Distinguished Legal Career
Unlike many spouses of high-profile celebrities, Holly Bankemper has chosen to pursue her own professional path rather than rely on the fame of her husband. She practices law in the greater Cincinnati metropolitan area, with experience in litigation and general civil matters.
Her commitment to fairness and professionalism has earned her a respected reputation among peers. While she has avoided media attention, her work speaks volumes within local legal circles. She is also a member of the Cincinnati Bar Association, where she continues to contribute to discussions on ethics and community service.
Bankemper’s career reflects the balance of intellect and empathy — two traits that make her not just a skilled attorney but also a compassionate advisor. In a world where public recognition often overshadows private achievement, Holly’s career stands as proof that one can build lasting impact without the need for constant publicity.
Philanthropy and Community Involvement
Beyond her law career, Holly Bankemper has been deeply involved in philanthropic activities and community service. Alongside her husband, she supports the Cris Collinsworth ProScan Fund, a nonprofit organization dedicated to breast cancer prevention, awareness, and early detection.
The fund provides low-cost mammography screenings and community outreach programs, primarily in the Greater Cincinnati area. Holly’s involvement with this cause underscores her compassion and belief in empowering women through health and education.
In addition to the ProScan Fund, Holly has participated in several local development and educational initiatives in Fort Thomas. Her contributions, though often unpublicized, have helped strengthen her community — from school fundraisers to local legal aid efforts.
Her service-oriented mindset is an extension of her values: discipline, empathy, and dedication to meaningful causes rather than superficial fame.
Private Life and Character
What sets Holly Bankemper apart is her ability to live gracefully in the background of public life. Despite being married to one of the most recognizable voices in sports broadcasting, she has managed to protect her family’s privacy and cultivate a normal, grounded lifestyle.
Those who know her describe her as warm, witty, and humble, with a sharp legal mind and a deep sense of loyalty to her community. She rarely makes public appearances or gives interviews, preferring to let her actions and accomplishments define her reputation.
In an era dominated by social media and celebrity culture, Holly’s discretion is refreshing. She remains focused on her career, family, and charitable causes — the pillars of a fulfilling and purpose-driven life.
The Quiet Strength Behind the Spotlight
While Cris Collinsworth’s voice echoes in stadiums across America every NFL Sunday, it’s Holly Bankemper’s quiet strength that has sustained the foundation of their shared success.
Behind every broadcast, travel schedule, and production meeting lies a supportive partner managing family, work, and life with poise. Her intelligence and independence serve as an anchor for the Collinsworth family, providing stability amid the constant movement of the sports media world.
This balance — between visibility and restraint, success and humility — defines Holly’s legacy. She has built a career and a life that demonstrate how true success often lies not in public recognition, but in personal fulfillment and meaningful relationships.
An Example of Modern Professional Womanhood
Holly Bankemper embodies what it means to be a modern professional woman — one who can sustain a demanding career while nurturing a thriving family and maintaining her individuality.
Her life is a reminder that success doesn’t always come with headlines. Sometimes, it comes quietly — in the form of well-raised children, successful cases in court, and community programs that change lives.
She represents a generation of women who value balance, education, and contribution over fame. Whether in the courtroom or at home, Holly continues to inspire through her actions rather than her words.
Legacy and Continued Impact
Today, Holly Bankemper remains an active attorney and a guiding figure in her family’s continued success. Her influence extends beyond her household — through her mentorship of younger lawyers, her philanthropic contributions, and her steadfast dedication to integrity.
As her husband and son continue to dominate the world of sports broadcasting, Holly continues her mission quietly but effectively, proving that every great story has an equally remarkable partner behind it.
Her journey — from the classrooms of Kentucky to the courtrooms of Cincinnati — paints the portrait of a woman who embodies strength, intelligence, and purpose. She is not just Cris Collinsworth’s wife; she is Holly Bankemper, a name that stands proudly on its own merit.
Conclusion
In every respect, Holly Bankemper’s life showcases a balance of ambition and humility. She is a lawyer, a mother, a philanthropist, and an anchor — roles that she fulfills with quiet confidence.
Her legacy is not written in headlines but in the lives she has touched, the causes she has supported, and the example she continues to set for women navigating the intersection of career and family.
At Newsta, we celebrate individuals like Holly who redefine success — not through fame, but through integrity, service, and lasting influence.
1. Who is Holly Bankemper?
Holly Bankemper is an American attorney, philanthropist, and the wife of former NFL player and NBC broadcaster Cris Collinsworth. She practices law in the Cincinnati area and is known for her professionalism, community involvement, and dedication to her family.
2. Where was Holly Bankemper born?
She was born on November 23, 1964, in Fort Thomas, Kentucky, where she still resides with her family.
3. What does Holly Bankemper do for a living?
Holly is a licensed attorney specializing in litigation and general practice. She has been an active member of the Cincinnati Bar Association since the late 1980s.
4. Where did Holly Bankemper go to school?
She earned her undergraduate degree from the University of Kentucky and her law degree (J.D.) from the University of Cincinnati College of Law, graduating in 1988.
5. When did Holly Bankemper marry Cris Collinsworth?
Holly married Cris Collinsworth on June 3, 1989. The couple met while attending law school at the University of Cincinnati.
6. How many children do Holly and Cris Collinsworth have?
They have four children — Katie, Ashley, Austin, and Jac Collinsworth. Jac has followed in his father’s footsteps as a sports broadcaster for NBC Sports.
7. Is Holly Bankemper involved in philanthropy?
Yes. Holly is actively involved with the Cris Collinsworth ProScan Fund, a nonprofit organization focused on breast cancer awareness, prevention, and early detection in the Cincinnati area.
8. What is Holly Bankemper’s net worth?
While estimates vary, sources suggest Holly Bankemper’s net worth is around $3 million, largely attributed to her successful legal career. However, these numbers are approximate and not publicly verified.
9. Does Holly Bankemper use social media?
No, Holly maintains a low public profile and does not have any official or verified social media accounts. She values her privacy and prefers focusing on her family and legal work.
10. Where do Holly and Cris Collinsworth live?
The couple resides in Fort Thomas, Kentucky, near Cincinnati — the same town where Holly grew up.
11. What makes Holly Bankemper an inspiring figure?
Holly Bankemper stands out for her balance of career success, family values, and community service. She exemplifies the modern woman who thrives in her profession while maintaining humility and dedication to others.
