Where did the name Grip come from

[Kim Welch]

Does anyone know why we call them Grips?

Update, November 2026
The term "grip" is often traced to early stage and circus crews who carried bags of tools called grips, though stories vary. Today, grips handle rigging, camera support such as dollies and cranes, and shaping light with flags and frames.

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[Maura N.]

Hmn, that I do not know But now I am curious about it.

 

[István Kovács]

The grip is very important because he sets up (and sometimes holds in their hands) the lights on the filming set. Why they call them grips is unknown to me, but I am guessing that it is connected to the meaning of the word, because they "grip" the lights with their hands?

 

[juliadoyle]

The grip is very important because he sets up (and sometimes holds in their hands) the lights on the filming set. Why they call them grips is unknown to me, but I am guessing that it is connected to the meaning of the word, because they "grip" the lights with their hands?

It is a very difficult and important job, too! It should receive more recognition