Early Life and Sporting Background
Chris Hollins was born on March 20, 1971, in Bromley, London, into a family with a rich sporting heritage. His father, John Hollins, was a professional footballer and manager, known for his time at Chelsea and Arsenal. Growing up in such a sporting environment, Chris was naturally drawn to sports from a young age.
He attended Tonbridge School and later studied at Durham University, where he played cricket and earned a “Blue” for his outstanding performance. After university, Chris played youth football for clubs like QPR and Aldershot Town. Although his sports career was promising, it was in broadcasting where he would truly make his mark.
Career Beginnings in Broadcasting
Chris Hollins began his career in broadcasting as a sports journalist. His first major role came when he joined the BBC in 2005, becoming a key figure on BBC Breakfast. During his time at BBC Breakfast, Chris covered major sporting events such as the World Cup, The Masters, and the Olympics. His charisma and natural presenting style made him a popular figure, and he quickly became a trusted sports correspondent.
Chris also appeared on other BBC shows, including Football Focus, Grandstand, and The One Show, solidifying his position as one of the most well-known sports presenters in the UK. His extensive experience in sports journalism allowed him to develop a deep understanding of various sports, which resonated with viewers.
Chris Hollins Strictly Come Dancing Journey
One of the defining moments of Chris Hollins’ career came in 2009, when he joined the cast of Strictly Come Dancing. He was partnered with professional dancer Ola Jordan. From the very beginning, Chris’s performances captivated both the judges and the audience, and his journey on the show became one of the most memorable in Strictly history.
Chris and Ola went on to win the competition that year, with their stunning Charleston performance in the final being one of the standout moments of the series. Their victory in Series 7 of Strictly Come Dancing earned them a place in the hearts of fans, and Chris became known as a winner of the prestigious competition.
Despite winning the show, Chris remained humble, often attributing his success to the hard work and dedication of his dance partner, Ola. His time on Strictly allowed him to showcase a different side of his personality and further endeared him to viewers across the country.
Chris Hollins Personal Life: Family and Relationships
Chris Hollins’ personal life is just as intriguing as his professional one. He married Sarah Alexander, a marketing account director, in March 2012 at Chelsea Old Church. The couple has two children, a son and a daughter. While Chris keeps his family life relatively private, it is known that he and Sarah have a strong, supportive relationship.
Although many fans of Chris may be curious about his family, there are no known connections between Chris and a Victoria Hollins. Despite the circulating rumors, no verifiable sources confirm that Victoria Hollins is his sister or closely related to him. In fact, Chris himself has not publicly mentioned any such relation.
Chris’s father, John Hollins, remains a key influence in his life. A former footballer and manager, John played a significant role in shaping Chris’s love for sports and contributed to his early career decisions.
Chris Hollins Now: What Is He Doing?
As of 2026, Chris Hollins remains an active figure in the broadcasting world, though his role has shifted from the high-profile sports presenting gigs he once held. After his time on BBC Breakfast, he transitioned to other projects, including hosting the popular Golf’s Greatest Holes series. The show allows Chris to combine his love of golf with his presenting skills as he travels around the world, exploring some of the most iconic and breathtaking golf courses.
Chris’s career may have slowed down in terms of mainstream television roles, but he continues to work behind the scenes and appears as a guest on various television programs, including documentaries and consumer rights shows like Watchdog. He has also taken part in history and genealogy series such as Find My Past, where he explored his ancestry alongside other celebrities.
Although no longer in the public eye on a daily basis, Chris Hollins has managed to maintain a presence in the media world, successfully transitioning into roles that allow him to pursue his passions while still captivating audiences.
Chris Hollins Net Worth
While it is difficult to pinpoint the exact net worth of Chris Hollins, various sources estimate it to be between £2 million and £5 million. This wealth is largely attributed to his time as a television presenter, journalist, and his victory on Strictly Come Dancing. Additionally, his involvement in television shows such as BBC Sport, Watchdog, and various documentaries, as well as his golf presenting work, has contributed to his substantial earnings over the years.
Chris’s ability to diversify his career and pursue projects outside of mainstream TV broadcasting has certainly helped him build a solid financial foundation, ensuring that his career continues to thrive in various ways.
Chris Hollins Golf and Sporting Interests
Outside of his television career, Chris Hollins is an avid golfer, with a reported handicap of 7. He is passionate about the sport and continues to be involved in it both recreationally and professionally. He has even served as the president of a local golf club in Oxfordshire, a position that highlights his deep commitment to the game.
Chris’s love for sports is not limited to his childhood or broadcasting career. His ongoing involvement in golf allows him to stay connected to his roots and maintain a healthy work-life balance.
Conclusion
Chris Hollins is a multifaceted personality who has carved a niche for himself in both the world of sports journalism and television presenting. From his early days as a promising footballer and cricketer to his success on Strictly Come Dancing, Chris has proven to be a versatile and talented individual. Despite stepping away from the mainstream spotlight in recent years, he remains an influential figure in the UK’s broadcasting landscape.
His victory on Strictly Come Dancing and his work as a sports presenter have left a lasting legacy in the world of television. As Chris continues to explore new opportunities in television and sports, his career remains a testament to the power of versatility and passion.
Whether it’s through his golf adventures, family life, or continued presence on TV, Chris Hollins has shown that he is far more than just a one-time winner of Strictly Come Dancing — he is a respected broadcaster and a beloved public figure with much more to offer in the years to come.