Neil patrick harris age

1. Early Life and Education
2. Professional Acting Debut
3. Adult Film and Television Roles
4. Broadway Success
5. "How I Met Your Mother" and Beyond
6. Personal Life

Early Life and Education

Neil Patrick Harris was born in Albuquerque, New Mexico, in 1973. Growing up in Ruidoso, New Mexico, he developed an interest in acting thanks to his older brother Brian. Together, they auditioned for their high school drama club, leading Harris to land the role of Toto in their production of "The Wizard of Oz."

Throughout high school, Harris was an active member of his drama club and graduated with honors in 1991.

Professional Acting Debut

Even before graduating high school, Harris made his professional acting debut at a theater camp in Las Cruces, New Mexico. His performance caught the attention of playwright Mark Medoff, who cast him in the film "Clara's Heart" (1988) alongside Whoopi Goldberg. This role earned Harris his first Golden Globe nomination.

In the same year, Harris starred in the children's film "Purple People Eater" (1988). A year later, he landed the lead role in the television series "Doogie Howser, M.D." (1989-1993). This role brought Harris another Golden Globe nomination.

Adult Film and Television Roles

After "Doogie Howser, M.D.," Harris transitioned to adult roles, including his first in the 1995 film "Animal Room." He went on to have supporting roles in "The Next Best Thing" (2000), "Undercover Brother" (2002), and "Starship Troopers" (1997).

In 1999-2000, Harris had a regular role in the comedy series "Stark Raving Mad."

Broadway Success

Around this time, Harris gained prominence on Broadway. He played Tobias Ragg in "Sweeney Todd" (2001), starred alongside Anne Heche in "Proof" (2002), and portrayed the Emcee in "Cabaret" (2003). The latter role earned him significant critical acclaim.

In 2004, Harris took on a dual role as the Balladeer and Lee Harvey Oswald in Stephen Sondheim's controversial Broadway production "Assassins." He was later cast as Mark Cohen in the musical "RENT," delivering a standout performance that further solidified his reputation.

"How I Met Your Mother" and Beyond

Since 2005, Harris has played the iconic role of Barney Stinson in the CBS comedy series "How I Met Your Mother." The character of Stinson bears some resemblance to Harris's earlier roles in the "Harold and Kumar" film series.

Harris has received Emmy nominations for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series for his role as Stinson in 2007, 2008, and 2009.

In 2008, he starred in Joss Whedon's musical web series "Dr. Horrible's Sing-Along Blog" alongside Nathan Fillion and Felicia Day.

Harris has also hosted major award shows, including the 63rd Tony Awards in 2009 and the 61st Primetime Emmy Awards in 2009. He performed in the opening musical number at the 82nd Academy Awards in 2010.

Personal Life

In 2006, Harris publicly acknowledged his homosexuality after news of his relationship with actor David Burtka became known. They have been together since April 2004 and have two children through surrogacy.

Harris is an avid magician, which has been featured in his performances, including as Barney Stinson in "How I Met Your Mother."