Nine seasons, countless laughs, and a finale that continues to spark debate – How I Met Your Mother remains a beloved sitcom. But beyond the iconic characters and catchphrases, lies a treasure trove of behind-the-scenes stories and secrets. Let’s delve into some legendary moments from the show’s creation and run.
The show’s genesis began with a simple pitch from creators Carter Bays and Craig Thomas to 20th Century Fox. Drawing inspiration from their own post-grad lives in New York City, they crafted a narrative that resonated with millions. Many plot points stemmed directly from their personal experiences, adding an authentic touch to the fictional world of Ted, Marshall, Lily, Barney, and Robin. Even Alyson Hannigan’s casting was influenced by a personal connection – Thomas’ wife suggested her for the role of Lily, a testament to the show’s close-knit creative process.
Casting decisions were equally pivotal. Jason Biggs famously turned down the role of Ted, a regret he still holds today. Neil Patrick Harris’s unforgettable audition, complete with an impromptu dive roll into a wall, secured him the iconic role of Barney Stinson. Meanwhile, Cobie Smulders was discovered by a casting director flipping channels, highlighting the serendipitous nature of casting success. The show also boasts a stellar lineup of guest stars, from Britney Spears to Katy Perry, significantly boosting the show’s popularity.
The show’s iconic setting, MacLaren’s Pub, was inspired by a real-life bar frequented by the creators. Even the name of the bartender, Carl, was a tribute to Bays’ assistant. Many of the show’s most memorable storylines also had roots in real-life experiences of the cast and crew, adding an element of authenticity and relatability.
The theme song, “Hey Beautiful,” was written by the creators themselves, who also contributed many musical cues throughout the series. The close bond between the cast was evident both on and off screen, with the actors often arriving together for table reads and maintaining a strong friendship throughout the show’s run. This camaraderie clearly translated to the on-screen chemistry.
The series finale, however, remains a point of contention among fans. The creators reveal that they shot only one script, but edited it into two possible endings. Alyson Hannigan points to a significantly longer table read and subsequent editing as a possible reason for the less-than-universally-loved ending. Josh Radnor and Alyson Hannigan both cite cut scenes that could have provided more context and emotional nuance.
Even the actors themselves had intriguing experiences with the show’s overarching narrative. Josh Radnor was aware early on of the tragic twist involving the Mother, while Cristin Milioti received the devastating news during a Christmas party. The actors who played Ted’s children, Lyndsy Fonseca and David Henrie, filmed their scenes early on, highlighting the long-term vision of the creators.
From the show’s inception to its controversial finale, the journey of How I Met Your Mother is filled with fascinating anecdotes. The legacy of the show extends beyond its on-screen success, encompassing the strong relationships forged by the cast and crew and the enduring impact it continues to have on viewers. The secrets revealed here offer a fresh perspective on a show that continues to entertain and engage audiences long after its final episode aired.
