Coup began his career working in the film industry, performing set design and visual effects.

Coup is credited for working on Back to the Future, Flight of the Navigator, Total Recall, Dick Tracy, and Gremlins 2: The New Batch.

Although he wasn't looking to leave the film and television industry, Coup was intrigued by the challenges the new job would entail and accepted the position.

[3][11] Coup's next major project was to be the creative director for The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Islands of Adventure.

[12] Coup and his team made several trips to Scotland to meet with J.K. Rowling, the author of the Harry Potter series of books.

The role would see him lead "creative development activities for upcoming attractions of all Universal theme parks world-wide".