How We Met NPH Pt. 2 [with Neil Patrick Harris] | S2E20 "Showdown"

How We Met NPH Pt. 2 [with Neil Patrick Harris] | S2E20 "Showdown"

From How We Made Your Mother by Audacy & Josh Radnor and Craig Thomas

March 23, 2026 · 40 min

About this episode

Josh and Craig discuss their working relationship with Neil Patrick Harris and reflect on the dynamics of their characters in How I Met Your Mother.

Josh and Craig continue their conversation with Neil Patrick Harris, reflecting on their working dynamic during How I Met Your Mother and how Barney and Ted’s very different roles on the show sometimes created a strange but productive tension between the actors. They talk candidly about early insecurities, the pressure of carrying different storytelling responsibilities—Josh often delivering the emotional core while Neil chased the biggest laughs—and how that contrast ultimately helped create the chemistry that defined the show. The discussion then shifts to the Season 2 episode “Showdown,” including Barney’s obsession with The Price Is Right, Ted’s struggle to write a best-man speech for Marshall, and memorable bits like Marshall’s belief in ghosts, Lily and Marshall’s intense co-dependence, and the absurd sincerity of Barney asking Bob Barker if he’s proud of him. Along the way they swap behind-the-scenes memories—from Neil’s obsessive continuity tricks for the editors to subtle moments that planted the seeds for Barney and Robin—and reflect on how, years later, they can finally look back at the experience with perspective, affection, and a deeper understanding of what each of…

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