“How I Met Your Mother” is a legendary TV show that aired from 2005 to 2014. The sitcom follows the life of Ted Mosby (Josh Radnor) and his group of friends as they navigate their love lives, careers, and personal growth in New York City. One of the reasons why the show became so popular was due to its talented cast members who brought the characters to life on screen.

From Josh Radnor’s portrayal of the lovable yet often frustrating Ted, to Neil Patrick Harris’ iconic performance as the womanizing Barney Stinson, the “How I Met Your Mother” cast has become a beloved part of pop culture. However, with nine seasons and over 200 episodes, it can be hard to keep track of all the actors and characters involved in the show.

That’s where this guide comes in. In this post, we’ll take a deep dive into the main and recurring cast members of “How I Met Your Mother,” including some interesting facts about their roles and careers. So whether you’re a die-hard fan or just looking to learn more about the show, keep reading to discover everything you need to know about the “How I Met Your Mother” cast.

Introduction

“How I Met Your Mother” is a popular American sitcom that aired on CBS from September 2005 to March 2014. Created by Carter Bays and Craig Thomas, the show follows the life of Ted Mosby and his group of friends in New York City. One of the main attractions of the show was its talented and diverse cast, which brought to life the beloved characters that fans have come to cherish over the years.

The “How I Met Your Mother” cast was composed of both established actors and rising stars, who gave memorable performances that helped make the show a success. The lead actor Josh Radnor played the role of Ted Mosby, who narrates the story of how he met his children’s mother to his two kids in the year 2030. Jason Segel played Marshall Eriksen, Ted’s best friend since college, while Alyson Hannigan portrayed Lily Aldrin, Marshall’s wife. Neil Patrick Harris played the iconic character of Barney Stinson, a womanizer with a heart of gold, and Cobie Smulders played Robin Scherbatsky, a Canadian news anchor who becomes one of Ted’s love interests.

Over the course of nine seasons, additional cast members were introduced, including Cristin Milioti as Tracy McConnell, the titular “Mother” whose identity was revealed in the final season. Other recurring cast members and guest stars included Sarah Chalke as Stella Zinman, Ted’s ex-fiancee, and Kyle MacLachlan as “The Captain,” Lily’s boss.

The “How I Met Your Mother” cast not only delivered exceptional performances but also became household names in the entertainment industry. From hosting award shows to starring in blockbuster movies, these actors have continued to thrive long after the show’s finale. The chemistry between the cast members was evident on screen and behind the scenes, making the show an unforgettable experience for both the actors and the audience.

In conclusion, the “How I Met Your Mother” cast was an integral part of what made the show so special and memorable. Their talent and hard work helped bring these beloved characters to life and captivated audiences for almost a decade.

Main Cast Members of How I Met Your Mother

1. Ted Mosby (Josh Radnor)

Ted Mosby, portrayed by Josh Radnor, is the lead character of the popular TV show “How I Met Your Mother”. Ted is an architect living in New York City who tells his children the story of how he met their mother.

Josh Radnor’s portrayal of Ted Mosby was a key reason for the show’s success. Radnor brought a relatable and endearing quality to the character, making audiences root for him throughout his romantic misadventures.

Radnor’s acting career began in theater, where he starred in several productions including “The Graduate” and “The Paris Letter”. He then transitioned to television, landing guest roles on shows like “Law & Order” and “Six Feet Under”.

When Radnor auditioned for “How I Met Your Mother”, the producers were immediately impressed with his performance. They felt that he embodied the essence of Ted Mosby and had the perfect mix of humor and heart.

Throughout the show’s nine seasons, Radnor’s portrayal of Ted Mosby evolved as the character went through various stages of life and love. From his early days as a hopeless romantic searching for “the one”, to his eventual marriage and fatherhood, Radnor’s performance remained consistent and engaging.

In addition to his work on “How I Met Your Mother”, Radnor has continued to act in both film and television. He wrote, directed, and starred in the indie film “Happythankyoumoreplease”, which won the Audience Award at the Sundance Film Festival.

Overall, Josh Radnor’s portrayal of Ted Mosby was a standout performance that helped make “How I Met Your Mother” a beloved TV show. His talent and dedication to the role ensured that Ted Mosby will always be remembered as one of the most iconic characters in television history.

2. Marshall Eriksen (Jason Segel)

Marshall Eriksen, played by Jason Segel, is a fan favorite character on the hit TV show “How I Met Your Mother.” Marshall is Ted Mosby’s best friend and college roommate who is known for being loyal, goofy, and lovingly referred to as “Big Fudge” by his friends.

One of the most notable aspects of Marshall’s character is his relationship with his wife Lily Aldrin. Their love story is a central theme throughout the show, and viewers can’t help but root for their unwavering commitment to each other. Marshall’s role in the show also highlights the importance of having a supportive and loving partner in life.

Aside from his personal relationships, Marshall also has a successful career as a lawyer. However, throughout the show, he struggles to find fulfillment in his job and eventually decides to pursue his dream of becoming an environmental lawyer. This storyline showcases the importance of pursuing your passions and not settling for a career that doesn’t bring you happiness.

Jason Segel’s portrayal of Marshall Eriksen is nothing short of outstanding. His comedic timing and heartfelt performances make him a standout member of the cast. In fact, Segel’s performance in the episode “Bad News” earned him critical acclaim for his emotional scenes.

Overall, Marshall Eriksen is a beloved character on “How I Met Your Mother,” thanks to Jason Segel’s exceptional acting and the character’s relatable qualities. From his close friendships to his career struggles and ultimate success, Marshall’s arc provides valuable insights and life lessons for viewers.

3. Lily Aldrin (Alyson Hannigan)

Lily Aldrin (Alyson Hannigan)

Lily Aldrin, played by Alyson Hannigan, is one of the main cast members of the popular TV show How I Met Your Mother. She is best known as Marshall Eriksen’s wife and the best friend of Ted Mosby.

Lily is a vibrant and quirky character who is always there for her friends whenever they need her. Her relationship with Marshall is one of the most beloved aspects of the show, and fans have enjoyed watching their relationship grow over the course of the series.

One of the unique things about Lily’s character is her love for art. She has a passion for painting and even went to art school before becoming a kindergarten teacher. Her artistic talents come into play throughout the show, from painting murals on the walls of the gang’s apartment to creating intricate Halloween costumes.

Aside from her creative side, Lily is also known for her fierce loyalty to her friends. She’s not afraid to speak her mind and will do whatever it takes to protect the people she cares about. This trait is especially evident when she stands up to Barney Stinson, her friend’s womanizing best friend, and makes sure he treats women with respect.

Alyson Hannigan’s portrayal of Lily is one of the highlights of the show. She brings a warmth and humor to the character that makes her instantly likable. Hannigan’s chemistry with Jason Segel, who plays Marshall, is also outstanding, and their scenes together are some of the most memorable in the show.

Overall, Lily Aldrin is a beloved character in the How I Met Your Mother universe, and Alyson Hannigan’s performance as her is nothing short of remarkable. Whether she’s helping her friends navigate their romantic lives or pursuing her own passions, Lily is a character that viewers can’t help but root for and admire.

4. Barney Stinson (Neil Patrick Harris)

Barney Stinson, played by Neil Patrick Harris, is one of the most iconic characters in television history. He is best known for being a womanizer and his catchphrase “Suit up!”. Barney’s character quickly became a fan favorite due to his charm, wit, and humorous antics.

In the show, Barney is portrayed as someone who is always on the prowl for women. He has an extensive playbook full of tricks and tactics to win over any woman he desires. However, despite his reputation as a womanizer, Barney also has a sensitive side. As the show progresses, viewers get to see more of his vulnerability and his struggles with commitment.

Neil Patrick Harris was the perfect choice to play Barney Stinson. Prior to How I Met Your Mother, Harris was primarily known for his role as a child actor in Doogie Howser, M.D. However, his performance as Barney allowed him to showcase his incredible range as an actor. He won multiple awards for his portrayal of the character, including four Primetime Emmy Awards.

What made Barney Stinson so memorable was not just his womanizing ways, but also his unique quirks and habits. For instance, he is obsessed with suits and never appears in public without one. He also has a number of catchphrases, including “Suit up!”, “Legendary!”, and “Wait for it…”.

Overall, Barney Stinson is a character that will always be remembered by How I Met Your Mother fans. His charisma and humor brought levity to the show, while his emotional depth added a layer of complexity to his character. Thanks to Neil Patrick Harris’ stellar portrayal, Barney will forever be known as one of the greatest TV characters of all time.

5. Robin Scherbatsky (Cobie Smulders)

5. Robin Scherbatsky (Cobie Smulders)

Robin Scherbatsky is a beloved character on How I Met Your Mother, portrayed by Canadian actress Cobie Smulders. She starts the series as a news anchor for a local New York City television station and goes on to have a successful career in journalism.

Smulders brings depth and nuance to her portrayal of Robin, who is not only a competent professional but also a complex individual struggling with insecurity and personal issues. Her performance earned her numerous accolades, including nominations for the Critics’ Choice Television Award for Best Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series.

Beyond her work on How I Met Your Mother, Smulders has had a successful acting career in film and television. She is perhaps best known for her role as Maria Hill in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, appearing in several films including The Avengers and Captain America: The Winter Soldier.

In addition to her acting career, Smulders has been vocal about her support for various causes, including women’s rights and environmentalism. She has participated in initiatives such as the Time’s Up movement and the Rainforest Foundation Fund.

Overall, Robin Scherbatsky and Cobie Smulders are both cherished figures in popular culture, and their impact extends far beyond the world of How I Met Your Mother.

Recurring Cast Members and Guest Stars

1. The Mother (Cristin Milioti)

Cristin Milioti’s character in How I Met Your Mother was a major mystery for several seasons, with fans eagerly anticipating the reveal of “The Mother.” Finally, in the final season, audiences were introduced to Tracy McConnell, portrayed by Milioti.

Tracy was the love interest and eventual wife of Ted Mosby, who had been telling his children the story of how he met their mother throughout the series. Her introduction was highly anticipated by fans, as it marked the culmination of the show’s central plotline.

Milioti’s performance as Tracy received critical acclaim, with many praising her chemistry with Josh Radnor’s Ted. Despite only appearing in the final season, her character quickly became a fan favorite. Her portrayal of Tracy was both charming and relatable, making her the perfect match for Ted.

Interestingly, Milioti had auditioned for the role of Tracy without knowing what show she was auditioning for. She later discovered it was for How I Met Your Mother and was thrilled when she landed the part.

Overall, Cristin Milioti’s portrayal of “The Mother” was a highlight of the final season of How I Met Your Mother. Her performance brought closure to the long-running storyline and left a lasting impact on fans of the show.

2. Tracy McConnell (Cristin Milioti)

Tracy McConnell is a character on the American television series How I Met Your Mother, played by the talented Cristin Milioti. Although she joins the show in the final season, her role as the titular mother of the show’s title makes her a significant character.

One of the most interesting things about Tracy McConnell is that her character’s name was actually kept a secret until the last season of the show! For years, fans wondered who the mother could be and what her name might be, but it wasn’t until the ninth season of the show that her true identity was revealed.

Cristin Milioti brings an amazing amount of charm and personality to her portrayal of Tracy. She quickly became a fan favorite, thanks to her easygoing nature and witty banter with Ted Mosby (Josh Radnor), the show’s lead character.

Beyond How I Met Your Mother, Cristin Milioti has had a successful career in both television and film. She has appeared in shows like The Mindy Project and Fargo, as well as movies like The Wolf of Wall Street and Once, for which she received a Tony Award nomination.

Overall, Tracy McConnell is a beloved character on How I Met Your Mother, and Cristin Milioti’s performance helped bring her to life in a way that resonated with viewers. Her portrayal of the mother helped bring the show to a satisfying conclusion, and her real name will always be remembered as one of the biggest reveals in television history.

3. Stella Zinman (Sarah Chalke)

3. Stella Zinman (Sarah Chalke)

Stella Zinman, played by Sarah Chalke, is a recurring character on How I Met Your Mother and served as Ted Mosby’s love interest for a brief period of time. She first appears in the show’s third season as Ted’s dermatologist and quickly becomes his girlfriend.

Stella and Ted’s relationship seems to be going well until she abruptly ends things with him after he proposes to her at her office. It is later revealed that she left Ted at the altar to get back together with her ex-boyfriend, Tony.

Although her character didn’t have as much screen time as some of the others, Stella was still an important part of the show’s storyline and provided valuable insights into Ted’s romantic journey. Her decision to leave Ted at the altar was a pivotal moment in the show, and it allowed Ted to grow and move on from her ultimately leading him to meet The Mother.

Sarah Chalke brought a unique charm to the character of Stella, making her both relatable and likable to viewers. Chalke is a Canadian actress who is best known for her roles in Scrubs, Roseanne, and Rick and Morty. Her performance as Stella in How I Met Your Mother earned critical acclaim and solidified her status as a talented actress.

In addition to her role as Stella, Chalke has had a successful career in television and film, appearing in projects such as Spin City, Speechless, and Dirty Dancing: Havana Nights. She continues to work in the entertainment industry and remains a beloved figure among fans of How I Met Your Mother.

Overall, Stella Zinman may not have been a main character on the show, but her impact on the storyline and Ted’s character development cannot be denied. Sarah Chalke’s portrayal of her is a testament to her talents as an actress and her role in the show’s success.

4. Victoria (Ashley Williams)

Victoria (Ashley Williams)

Victoria is a character that first appears in season one of How I Met Your Mother as Ted’s girlfriend. Ashley Williams portrays this role, and her performance has garnered praise from the show’s fans.

In the show, Victoria is an idealistic baker who meets Ted at a wedding. They hit it off and begin dating, but their relationship is not without its challenges. They break up briefly when Victoria moves to Germany for a pastry chef apprenticeship, but they eventually reconcile. However, their second chance at love is cut short when Ted cheats on her with Robin.

Despite her limited screen time, Victoria made an impact on the show’s fans. This is partly due to Ashley Williams’ excellent portrayal of the character. Williams brought a sense of warmth and vulnerability to Victoria that made her relatable and likable. Her chemistry with Josh Radnor (who played Ted) was also noteworthy, making their scenes together feel genuine and heartfelt.

Outside of How I Met Your Mother, Ashley Williams has had a successful career in film, television, and theater. She has appeared in several popular TV shows, including The Jim Gaffigan Show and The Good Wife. Additionally, she has starred in several films, such as Something Borrowed and Margin Call. Williams is also an accomplished stage actress, having performed in numerous Broadway productions.

Overall, Victoria may not have been a main character in How I Met Your Mother, but Ashley Williams’ portrayal of her left a lasting impression on the show’s fans. Her performance brought depth and humanity to the character, making viewers root for her to find happiness with Ted.

5. The Captain (Kyle MacLachlan)

5. The Captain (Kyle MacLachlan)

One of the recurring characters on How I Met Your Mother is the wealthy businessman known simply as The Captain, played by Kyle MacLachlan. He first appears in season four as the new love interest of Ted’s ex-girlfriend, Zoey, and later becomes Lily’s boss when she takes a job as an art consultant.

Despite his seemingly privileged lifestyle, The Captain is portrayed as eccentric and quirky, with a penchant for nautical-themed decor and attire. He even has a pet parrot named Mr. Druthers, who he insists is a lady.

Although The Captain may come across as aloof or detached at times, he genuinely cares about those close to him and is willing to go out of his way to help them. This is evident when he offers to pay for renovations to Lily and Marshall’s apartment after they complain about its condition.

Perhaps one of the most memorable scenes involving The Captain occurs when Lily accidentally destroys his prized painting, “The USS Vagina,” during a party. Rather than getting angry, he uses it as an opportunity to teach her about the importance of art and helps her develop her own artistic style.

Overall, Kyle MacLachlan’s portrayal of The Captain adds a unique and entertaining element to the show, showcasing his versatility as an actor beyond his more well-known roles in cult classics like Twin Peaks and Blue Velvet.

Conclusion

After nine seasons and 208 episodes, “How I Met Your Mother” ended its run in 2014. However, the show’s popularity has continued to flourish thanks to streaming services, DVDs, and reruns. The cast of “How I Met Your Mother” has become iconic, with each actor bringing something unique to their role.

The success of “How I Met Your Mother” can be attributed to many factors, but one of the most significant is the chemistry among the cast members. From the very first episode, it was clear that Josh Radnor, Jason Segel, Alyson Hannigan, Neil Patrick Harris, and Cobie Smulders had a special connection both on and off screen. This chemistry helped to make the characters of Ted, Marshall, Lily, Barney, and Robin feel like real people that audiences could relate to.

Another key factor in the show’s success was the writing. The show’s creators, Carter Bays and Craig Thomas, crafted a witty and heartfelt script that blended humor and emotion in a way that resonated with viewers. The show’s signature narrative device, in which Ted tells his children the story of how he met their mother, allowed for creative storytelling and built anticipation for the eventual reveal of the mother’s identity.

Overall, “How I Met Your Mother” was a beloved TV show that left a lasting impact on popular culture. The cast’s performances brought the characters to life and made them feel like old friends, while the writing offered a unique blend of humor and heart. It’s no wonder that fans continue to revisit the show years after its finale aired.
The How I Met Your Mother cast has become an iconic part of television history. From Ted’s romantic heart to Barney’s womanizing ways, each character brought something unique to the show’s dynamic. While the series came to an end in 2014, its legacy and impact on popular culture continue to be felt today. As we have seen, the actors who portrayed these beloved characters have gone on to achieve great success in their careers. From this guide, you can now appreciate the depth and range of talent that went into creating the world of How I Met Your Mother. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or someone who just stumbled upon the show, there’s no denying the charm and wit of this incredible ensemble cast.