10 Best Performances In How I Met Your Mother
1. Neil Patrick Harris - Barney Stinson
In the end, though, it could be only Neil Patrick Harris who took the top spot. Harris was the break-out star of the show, and Barney remains the series' most iconic and popular creation. Barney is also the show's most complex, messed-up and compelling player, a womaniser with low morals who grows up throughout the show to reveal a hidden sweetness and insecurity.
Barney's arc on the show is phenomenal. A loud-and-proud bachelor, obsessed with money, scotch and women, he's narcissistic, manipulative and cold - but is also funny, loyal, emotional and sensitive.
Harris plays the character with as much energy, charisma and joy as the rest of the main cast combined, showing no issue with pushing himself to try something new and show off his many skills. He's also responsible for some of the show's most powerful scenes, such as his decision to not meet Nora's parents, admitting his love to Robin, and confronting his estranged father.
It's hard to argue with Barney's popularity and brilliance. It's even harder to find anything wrong with Harris' performance.