Chip Chinery's illustrious showbiz career commenced as a 16-year-old stand-up comedian, showcasing his impressive wit and charm. After completing his Bachelor's degree in Psychology from Miami University, Chip pursued a career in television, working as a TV cameraman for the CBS affiliate in Cincinnati and later as the Director of Communications for TheBankMart in Connecticut.
Undeterred by his varied professional pursuits, Chip continued to nurture his passion for stand-up comedy, embarking on a decade-long tour of the country, performing 45 weeks a year in clubs across the nation. His dedication and perseverance eventually paid off when, in 1993, he won the prestigious Emmy Award for "On-Air Performer" in the Midwest region, recognizing his exceptional work in stand-up, sketches, and a man-on-the-street piece that he wrote, produced, and performed.
The following year, Chip secured his second Emmy nomination for a "Short Subject" that he wrote, produced, edited, and performed. This impressive feat solidified his position as a talented and multi-faceted performer.
Before relocating to Hollywood in 1994, Chip honed his skills in improv and sketch comedy at Second City in Chicago under the guidance of Martin duMaet. Upon arriving in Los Angeles, he continued his training at The Groundlings and Acme Comedy Theatre, eventually becoming a member of the Main Company at Acme. Balancing his stand-up work on the road with sketch, improv, and auditions in Los Angeles, Chip's versatility and adaptability allowed him to thrive in a competitive industry.
After a grueling 160 auditions over 3½ years, Chip finally landed his first commercial, marking a significant milestone in his career. He then went on to book his first TV show, 3rd Rock From the Sun, where he played the lovable but inept maintenance man in several episodes from 1997 to 1999. While this experience was a significant achievement, Chip has humorously noted that his first on-screen kiss was with the esteemed John Lithgow, a memorable moment that has become a humorous anecdote in his career.
