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Chris Crabb’s career is a remarkable fusion of athletic mastery and cinematic charm. As a professional tennis coach and seasoned actor, Chris has carved out a unique space for himself, where the glamour of Hollywood meets the grit of the tennis court. With an illustrious career spanning decades and industries, Chris’s journey is a testament to resilience, talent, and an unrelenting passion for both sport and storytelling.
Renowned as one of the world’s top tennis instructors, Chris Crabb’s client list reads like the guest list to an Oscars afterparty. A-listers such as George Clooney, Steve Carell, Robert Downey Jr., Dakota Fanning, and Hilary Duff have all sought out Chris for his unparalleled expertise and approachable style.
During the pandemic, Chris became a beacon of hope for Hollywood’s elite, championing tennis as the perfect socially distanced sport. His efforts, featured in The Hollywood Reporter, ignited a tennis renaissance, as celebrities turned to him not just to improve their game but to find solace and camaraderie during challenging times.
Chris’s innate ability to connect with high-profile individuals has cemented his reputation as Hollywood’s go-to tennis coach. On social media (@christophercrabbofficial), Chris shares tennis strategies in an engaging and relatable manner, often featuring his golden retriever, adding a personal and heartwarming touch to his content.
Chris’s passion for performance began early. Born in Toronto, he stepped into the limelight at the tender age of eight, quickly making a name for himself in television and film. Notably, he played Tiny Tim in An American Christmas Carol alongside Henry Winkler and became a household name on the CBC/Disney Channel hit Danger Bay, where he starred for six seasons. His acting repertoire expanded to include acclaimed shows like Life Goes On and Rebel Highway, as well as films such as The Last Mailman and Stalked By My Doctor with Eric Roberts.
Chris’s prowess wasn’t limited to acting. At 16, he turned professional in tennis, competing against legends like Jim Courier and Michael Chang. However, a devastating car accident at 18 abruptly ended his competitive career. Undeterred, Chris pivoted to a new path, moving to Los Angeles to pursue acting full-time.
By 22, he had already found a way to combine his dual passions. Chris’s role as Robert Downey Jr.’s tennis tutor for the Oscar-nominated film Chaplin not only helped Downey Jr. embody the role but also kickstarted Chris’s coaching career.
Chris’s influence extends far beyond the court. A staunch advocate for fitness and mental health, he views tennis as a powerful tool for fostering a balanced, active lifestyle. His coaching approach emphasizes not just technique but also the mental and emotional benefits of the sport.
His philanthropy is equally inspiring. From volunteering alongside Pete Wentz with child welfare organizations in San Diego and Los Angeles to supporting community initiatives, Chris is deeply committed to giving back. This ethos of service is a cornerstone of his coaching philosophy, as he inspires clients to embrace the same sense of purpose.
Today, Chris lives in Los Angeles with his wife, Olya Crabb, skillfully balancing his acting career with his coaching. His story is one of reinvention and perseverance, showcasing how passion and dedication can transcend obstacles. Whether on the court, on set, or online, Chris Crabb continues to inspire, bringing his unique blend of athletic expertise and Hollywood flair to everything he does.
We recently interviewed Chris, where he shared insights into his dual careers and his unique approach to coaching and acting and here’s what went down:
Your career spans professional tennis, coaching A-list celebrities, and acting. How have these diverse experiences shaped your approach to both work and life?
Charlie Chaplin famously said, “Tennis is my religion,” and for me, tennis and acting have merged in the most magical way. My first big acting job was playing Tiny Tim in *A Christmas Carol* with Henry Winkler, and tennis brought me to Robert Downey Jr., where I coached him and coordinated the tennis for *Chaplin.* These experiences have taught me that life is full of unexpected connections and opportunities. I’m lucky to keep working with incredible people—this merging of tennis and acting is an ongoing adventure.
Working with stars like George Clooney and Robert Downey Jr. requires not only technical skill but also a deep understanding of people. What’s your secret to building trust and strong connections with such high-profile clients?
Honestly, there’s no secret sauce. Over the years, I’ve worked with amazing students—celebrities, kids, and everyday players—many of them have become lifelong friends. I think the key is my unique approach to coaching. I don’t just drill techniques; I believe in putting players into competitive situations where they can learn to problem-solve on the court. That means my celebrity students often play matches with my other students. It’s about getting “down and dirty” and helping them push themselves to their full potential—while having some fun along the way.
You’ve spearheaded a tennis renaissance during the pandemic. What motivated you to take on this role, and what lasting impact do you see the sport having in a post-pandemic world?
Great question! I believe in finding the silver lining in tough situations. During COVID, tennis became a rare lifeline—it was one of the few sports people could play safely. My students grew closer as they played more, and it was incredible to see so many new faces picking up rackets for the first time. Tennis is thriving now, and I think the pandemic reminded people of the joy of being active and connecting through sport.
Your social media videos combine tennis strategy with a personal touch, often featuring your golden retriever. How important is relatability and authenticity in connecting with your audience?
Let’s be honest: people watch my videos for Sierra, my golden retriever. I’m just lucky to be part of her show! But seriously, I care deeply about tennis and helping people improve their game. My goal is to make the content fun and approachable while sharing valuable tips. If you follow me, feel free to shoot me a question—I’m here to help (with Sierra’s approval, of course).
Your journey from a professional tennis career cut short by a car accident to becoming a sought-after coach is inspiring. What mindset helped you overcome such a significant setback and pivot to new opportunities?
The accident was devastating, but I’ve always tried to find the positives in life’s challenges. At the time, I was fortunate to be working on Danger Bay, the TV series I did for six seasons. Tennis also taught me resilience—you win a point, lose a point, maybe even lose the match, but you always move forward. Life’s the same. Dwelling on the past won’t change it, so I keep looking ahead.
You’ve acted alongside industry icons and coached some of Hollywood’s biggest names. How does your experience in acting influence your coaching style, and vice versa?
As I mentioned, tennis and acting have intertwined throughout my life. From my first acting job with Henry Winkler to teaching actors like Steve Carell and Rockstars like Pete Wentz, each experience has shaped me. Acting taught me how to connect with people on a deeper level, and that’s been invaluable in coaching. Coaching, in turn, helps me bring structure and focus to everything I do. It’s a perfect balance.
Fitness and mental health are central to your philosophy. How do you use tennis as a platform to promote a balanced and healthy lifestyle for your clients and followers?
Did you know a recent study found that tennis players live 10 years longer on average? That’s pretty good motivation! When I teach, I focus on more than just technique—I help my students improve their fitness, mental toughness, and overall mindset. Tennis isn’t just a game; it’s a way to build a healthier, more balanced life.
You’ve volunteered with child welfare organizations and emphasized giving back to the community. How has this commitment shaped your personal and professional values, and what advice do you have for others looking to make a difference?
My wife and I recently volunteered at the LA Mission to feed the homeless on Thanksgiving, and it was such a meaningful experience. Pursuing professional tennis and acting can be pretty self-focused, so it’s nice to step outside that bubble and give back. My advice? Start small and local. Even a little effort can make a big difference—and it feels great to help others.
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