Holly Bankemper may not be a household name on her own, but her life story stands as a compelling example of strength, intelligence, and grace lived outside the spotlight. Best known as the wife of former NFL player and NBC sports broadcaster Cris Collinsworth, Holly Bankemper has quietly built a respected identity as an accomplished attorney, dedicated mother, and community advocate. From her early days as a spirited Kentucky cheerleader to her impressive academic career at the University of Cincinnati College of Law, she has always exemplified determination and dignity.
In a world often captivated by celebrity, Holly’s journey is rooted in privacy, purpose, and profound family values. Her marriage to Cris has spanned over three decades, yet she’s never allowed his fame to overshadow her own path. This biography explores her multifaceted life—from her professional accomplishments to her role as a wife, mother, and quiet force behind one of sports broadcasting’s most recognizable faces.
Full Name | Holly Bankemper |
---|---|
Profession | Attorney (Civil Law) |
Date of Birth | Not publicly disclosed |
Age (as of 2025) | Estimated mid-to-late 50s |
Place of Birth | Fort Thomas, Kentucky, USA |
Nationality | American |
Height | 1.73 meters (5 feet 8 inches) |
Education | University of Kentucky (Undergrad); University of Cincinnati College of Law (J.D., 1988) |
Spouse | Cris Collinsworth (m. 1989) |
Children | Austin Collinsworth, Jac Collinsworth, Ashley Collinsworth, Katie Collinsworth |
Former Cheerleader | Yes – University of Kentucky |
Known For | Being Cris Collinsworth’s wife, attorney, and devoted mother |
Net Worth (2025) | Estimated $1 million – $3 million |
Current Residence | Fort Thomas, Kentucky |
Media Presence | Private life; minimal public or media appearances |
Early Life and Humble Beginnings
Holly Bankemper was born in Fort Thomas, Kentucky, where she spent her early years surrounded by Midwestern values of hard work, humility, and community. Raised in a close-knit family, Holly displayed both academic and athletic talents from a young age, setting the tone for her future success. Her calm demeanor and strong moral compass would guide her through personal achievements and public life as she later became known as the wife of NFL star and broadcaster Cris Collinsworth.

Despite eventually marrying into fame, Holly has always prioritized family and education over celebrity, living a grounded and purpose-driven life. Those who knew her growing up described her as a “leader in spirit”—a quality that has defined every stage of her journey.
Academic Pursuits and Law Education
Holly Bankemper attended the University of Cincinnati College of Law, where she graduated in 1988 with a Juris Doctor degree. Her academic path was driven by a genuine passion for justice and public service, not the pursuit of status. Even before meeting her future husband, Holly had carved out a reputation as a brilliant legal mind and compassionate thinker.
During law school, she impressed peers and faculty alike with her thoughtful insights, advocacy skills, and dedication to fairness. Her law degree set the foundation for a respected legal career, but it also signaled her desire to make an impact on her own terms—separate from any celebrity associations.
A Cheerleader at Heart
Holly Bankemper Kentucky Cheerleader
Before becoming a respected attorney and devoted wife, Holly Bankemper was also a proud cheerleader at the University of Kentucky. Known for her school spirit, leadership, and athleticism, her time as a Kentucky cheerleader was more than extracurricular—it was a formative experience.
Her cheerleading years gave her a deep appreciation for teamwork, discipline, and personal fitness. These values would stay with her throughout her life and be reflected in how she managed her family and professional responsibilities. Being a Kentucky cheerleader became one of the earliest public glimpses into Holly’s balanced blend of strength and elegance.
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Meeting Cris Collinsworth: A Love Story Beyond the Limelight
Holly Bankemper Cris Collinsworth Wife
Holly met Cris Collinsworth, a former NFL wide receiver turned sports broadcaster, while attending the University of Cincinnati College of Law. Their connection was immediate—a mix of intellectual chemistry and shared values. Cris, already gaining national fame as a player and commentator, found in Holly someone who could challenge and ground him.

The two married in 1989, and their relationship has since become a model of partnership, loyalty, and balance in a world where celebrity marriages often falter. While Cris soared in the public eye, Holly maintained a steady presence behind the scenes—supporting him while continuing her own career and raising a family.
Family Life: Raising Future Leaders
Together, Holly and Cris Collinsworth have four children: Austin, Jac, Ashley, and Katie Collinsworth. Each child has pursued their own passions and professional paths, reflecting the strong upbringing and values instilled by their parents.
- Austin Collinsworth played football at Notre Dame.
- Jac Collinsworth followed in his father’s footsteps and became a well-known sports broadcaster.
- Ashley and Katie Collinsworth have remained largely private but are said to be successful and grounded.
Holly’s influence as a mother is clear through the well-rounded accomplishments of her children, who consistently credit their mother’s dedication and strength as pivotal in their growth.
Legal Career and Community Impact
Though many know her as a supportive spouse, Holly Bankemper has maintained a respected legal career. She has worked as an attorney in Cincinnati and has been involved in both private practice and community-focused initiatives. Her work often focuses on civil matters, and she is known for her ethical integrity, client compassion, and strategic mind.
Her colleagues describe her as humble, meticulous, and deeply ethical—qualities that have earned her long-standing respect in legal circles.
Beyond the courtroom, Holly contributes to charitable causes and local events, always maintaining a low profile and avoiding the spotlight unless it serves a meaningful cause.
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Holly Bankemper Net Worth and Shared Wealth
Holly Bankemper Net Worth
As of 2025, Holly Bankemper’s net worth is estimated to be between $1 million and $3 million, primarily from her legal career and joint investments with her husband. The Collinsworth family’s combined net worth is significantly higher, with Cris earning millions annually from his long-standing broadcasting role with NBC and his investments in Pro Football Focus.
Despite their wealth, Holly and Cris live a relatively modest and private life in Fort Thomas, Kentucky. Their lifestyle reflects their values—focused more on family and substance than luxury or extravagance.
Personality and Private Life
Holly is known among friends and family as someone who is loyal, intelligent, funny, and warm-hearted. She prefers staying behind the scenes, allowing her husband and children to take center stage while she offers unwavering support.
She enjoys fitness, reading, spending time with her children, and engaging in local charity work. Her balanced life is a reflection of her upbringing and inner strength—a quiet force of support within a high-profile family.
Avoiding the Limelight with Grace
Despite her husband’s fame, Holly Bankemper has consistently opted for a life of privacy and grounded living. She rarely appears in the media, avoids social media, and is seldom seen at red-carpet events unless accompanied by family.
This choice has allowed her to maintain peace, raise her children away from excessive public attention, and build a legacy defined by values rather than visibility. In a culture often dominated by self-promotion, Holly’s grace and humility are rare and admirable.
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The Balance of Career and Family
One of the most impressive aspects of Holly’s journey is how she managed to balance a successful legal career with the demands of raising a family in the public eye. Her ability to manage both roles with excellence is a model for professional women everywhere.
She represents a generation of women who quietly changed the rules—proving that it’s possible to be a loving wife, a hands-on mother, and a professional success without compromising any part of who you are.
Public Perception and Legacy
While she may not be a public figure in the traditional sense, Holly Bankemper has become a figure of admiration, especially among fans of Cris Collinsworth and those in the Cincinnati community. Her rare media appearances, thoughtful interviews, and charitable involvement have only elevated public respect for her.
Her legacy will likely be defined by the quiet impact she’s made—within her family, her profession, and her local community.
Holly Bankemper Wiki Presence
Holly Bankemper Wiki
Though not extensively covered online, Holly Bankemper does have a presence on various public biography platforms and wiki-style pages, particularly in relation to her husband Cris Collinsworth. These entries often summarize her legal career, family life, and education.
However, many of these summaries miss the emotional depth and personal journey that truly define her story, which is why long-form biographies like this provide a fuller, more accurate picture.
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Conclusion: A Life of Quiet Strength
Holly Bankemper’s life is a testament to grace, balance, and enduring strength. She has supported her husband through decades of NFL and broadcasting fame, raised four exceptional children, and maintained a meaningful legal career—all while remaining true to her values.
Her story is one of purpose, not publicity—of private victories and unspoken sacrifices. In a world that often values noise over nuance, Holly’s life shines as an example of quiet excellence.
FAQs about Holly Bankemper
1. Who is Holly Bankemper?
Holly Bankemper is an American attorney and the wife of Cris Collinsworth, former NFL player and NBC sports commentator.
2. What is Holly Bankemper’s profession?
She is a practicing attorney based in Cincinnati, Ohio, with a focus on civil law and community matters.
3. Was Holly Bankemper a cheerleader?
Yes, Holly Bankemper was a Kentucky cheerleader during her time at the University of Kentucky, before attending law school.
4. What is Holly Bankemper’s net worth?
Holly Bankemper’s net worth is estimated between $1 million and $3 million, largely from her legal career and joint assets with Cris Collinsworth.
5. Does Holly Bankemper have a Wikipedia page?
While Holly Bankemper does not have a full Wikipedia page, she is mentioned on wiki-style biographies and articles related to Cris Collinsworth’s family.
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