When most people think of Holly Bankemper, they instantly associate her with her husband, Cris Collinsworth—the former NFL star turned sports broadcaster. But labeling her simply as “Cris Collinsworth’s wife” doesn’t do justice to the multi-faceted life and impressive accomplishments she has achieved. A skilled attorney, devoted mother, and respected member of her community, Holly Bankemper has lived a life both intertwined with and separate from her husband’s public persona.

While Cris often dominates headlines with his NBC commentary and football analysis, Holly has maintained a strong but quiet presence, balancing her legal career and family life with remarkable grace. This article dives deep into Holly Bankemper’s background, achievements, and personal journey—an inspiring and often overlooked story worth telling.

Quick Bio

Full Name	Holly Bankemper Collinsworth
Date of Birth	November 23, 1964
Age	60 years (as of 2024)
Birthplace	Fort Thomas, Kentucky, USA
Profession	Attorney (Practicing in Fort Thomas, KY)
Spouse	Cris Collinsworth (NFL Analyst, Ex-NFL WR)
Children	4 (including Jac, Austin, and Ashley)
Education	University of Cincinnati College of Law
Current Residence	Fort Thomas, Kentucky

Early Life and Education: Kentucky Roots and Academic Excellence

Holly Bankemper was born and raised in Fort Thomas, Kentucky, a picturesque town nestled along the Ohio River just south of Cincinnati. From an early age, Holly exhibited a blend of ambition, intellect, and community-mindedness that would later define her adult life.

Her academic journey began locally but soon extended to the University of Cincinnati, where she pursued her undergraduate degree before attending the University of Cincinnati College of Law. There, she not only honed her legal acumen but also developed the professional discipline that would anchor her future career.

It was also during her time at law school that she crossed paths with Cris Collinsworth, who had recently retired from the NFL and returned to the same law school. Their story, initially rooted in academic halls, blossomed into a lifelong partnership that has stood the test of time.

A Legal Career Grounded in Community

Unlike many celebrity spouses who ride the coattails of their partner’s fame, Holly Bankemper has always emphasized her own career. After completing her JD degree, Holly passed the bar and began practicing law in her hometown of Fort Thomas. Her focus areas have included general law practice, often supporting local cases and clients.

Although her legal career is more local in scope compared to her husband’s national broadcasting fame, it reflects her strong values of justice, responsibility, and community service. Practicing law in a small town also means that Holly has developed personal relationships with many clients, further solidifying her position as a trusted legal voice in Fort Thomas.

What makes her journey even more inspiring is that she managed to maintain her professional identity while raising four children—a feat that’s often underappreciated.

Love Story with Cris Collinsworth: From Law School to Lasting Marriage

Holly met Cris Collinsworth at law school in the late 1980s, shortly after he had retired from a successful NFL career with the Cincinnati Bengals. Despite his fame and popularity, Holly was drawn more to his intellect and humility than his athletic past.

Their relationship was built on mutual respect and shared goals, especially the desire to create a balanced life rooted in family values. They married in 1989 and have since raised four children together. What stands out in their marriage is the way they’ve complemented each other’s lives—Cris bringing the spotlight, and Holly grounding it with steady, meaningful contributions behind the scenes.

Even after decades together, their relationship remains one of mutual admiration. Cris frequently acknowledges his wife’s role in maintaining stability and normalcy in their lives, particularly while he travels for his broadcasting duties.

Family Life: The Heart of Holly Bankemper

Family has always been at the core of Holly Bankemper’s priorities. Together with Cris, she raised four children: Jac, Austin, Ashley, and a fourth whose name remains more private. Each of them has forged their own path, with some even following in their father’s footsteps into sports broadcasting and business.

Despite her demanding legal career, Holly has always been a hands-on parent. Whether it was PTA meetings, sports events, or school functions, she made time for her children and actively participated in their upbringing. According to those close to the family, Holly is known for her warmth, wisdom, and ability to juggle multiple roles seamlessly.

In many ways, her ability to maintain a strong family life while sustaining a legal career and marriage to a public figure is what truly sets her apart.

Philanthropy and Community Engagement

In addition to her professional and family life, Holly Bankemper is known for her active role in various philanthropic causes, especially those centered around education, children, and local community programs. While she’s not one to seek public attention for her charity work, her contributions are felt deeply in her community.

Whether donating time or resources to local schools, churches, or youth programs, Holly exemplifies quiet leadership. Her philanthropic spirit is a reflection of her deeply held belief that success should be shared and that giving back is a responsibility, not a choice.

This grounding in community values makes Holly not just a successful attorney or public figure’s wife, but a role model for many aspiring professionals who wish to live a purpose-driven life.

The Balance of Privacy and Public Life

Navigating public life while maintaining privacy is a tightrope walk, especially when your spouse is constantly in the media. Yet, Holly Bankemper has managed to do exactly that with remarkable dignity. Unlike many high-profile families who open their lives to cameras and media attention, the Collinsworths have always valued discretion and authenticity.

Holly rarely appears in public interviews or red carpet events, choosing instead to let her work and values speak for themselves. Her ability to maintain a low profile while still being an essential part of a high-profile family shows her strength and intentionality.

This careful curation of her public image helps keep her family grounded and has allowed her children to grow up with a sense of normalcy—a rare feat in households touched by fame.

Legacy and Influence Beyond the Spotlight

While Cris Collinsworth is known for his Super Bowl appearances and broadcasting expertise, Holly Bankemper is quietly crafting a legacy of her own. Through her career, family, and community work, she represents a new kind of modern woman—someone who doesn’t need a spotlight to make a meaningful impact.

Holly has inspired many women, especially those trying to balance demanding careers and home life, by showing that it is not only possible but empowering. She’s an example of how integrity, hard work, and values can lead to a fulfilling and influential life—even if it’s not widely televised.

What Can We Learn from Holly Bankemper?

Holly’s life teaches us several powerful lessons. First, that personal identity doesn’t have to be overshadowed by a spouse’s fame. Second, that professional ambition and family values can coexist, and third, that leadership doesn’t always require a stage.

In a world often obsessed with celebrity and social media presence, Holly Bankemper’s quiet strength is a refreshing reminder that real success is often built in the background—through consistency, compassion, and character.

Conclusion: A Woman of Strength, Character, and Influence

Holly Bankemper may not be a household name, but her story deserves to be told. More than just the wife of an NFL icon, she’s a driven attorney, loving mother, dedicated community member, and a woman of substance. While Cris Collinsworth may light up screens on game day, it’s women like Holly who keep the home team strong behind the scenes.

Her journey is not just inspiring—it’s a blueprint for living a well-rounded, purpose-driven life. Whether you’re a law student, a working parent, or someone just trying to find your path, there’s something to learn from the remarkable story of Holly Bankemper.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Who is Holly Bankemper?

• Holly Bankemper is an attorney based in Fort Thomas, Kentucky, and the wife of former NFL wide receiver and NBC sports analyst Cris Collinsworth.

2. What does Holly Bankemper do for a living?

• She is a practicing attorney in her hometown and has focused on general law in her legal career.

3. How did Holly Bankemper meet Cris Collinsworth?

• They met while both were attending the University of Cincinnati College of Law in the late 1980s.

4. How many children do Holly and Cris Collinsworth have?

• They have four children, including Jac, Austin, and Ashley.

5. Is Holly Bankemper involved in public or media life?

• No, Holly prefers a private life and rarely appears in public or media events, maintaining a strong focus on her family and professional life.