On the latest episode of the How We Made Your Mother podcast, How I Met Your Mother co-creator Craig Thomas and episode writer Chris Harris reveal the inspiration behind Barney’s backstory on the show. First introduced in season 1, episode 15 titled ‘Game Night’, viewers catch a glimpse of Barney’s past. Thomas and actor Josh Radnor also discuss how Barney’s character evolved over time.
The podcast delves into how Barney’s backstory draws parallels to Darth Vader, with Thomas sharing that they always intended to explore who Barney was beneath the facade of a womanizing bachelor in a suit. The show premiered shortly after the release of Star Wars: Revenge of the Sith, which influenced the creators in unveiling Barney’s transformation.
Neil Patrick Harris, who portrayed Barney, elaborates on the writers’ decision to showcase Barney’s transition from a hippie to the suit-clad character fans came to know. The episode faced the challenge of making this backstory dynamic, ultimately culminating in a pivotal moment where Barney embraces his new persona in a sequence reminiscent of Darth Vader’s transformation.
The hosts praise the show for its unique blend of sitcom and cinematic elements, with Harris highlighting the effectiveness of the music and Thomas noting the significance of Barney’s iconic black suit. Additionally, the podcast conversation touches on how Barney, at times, was misunderstood as a parody rather than a role model.
Overall, the episode sheds light on the creative process behind Barney’s character development and the impactful storytelling within How I Met Your Mother.
In a recent interview, Radnor expressed his continued love and appreciation for Barney as a character, but emphasized the importance of viewing him with the right perspective. Thomas added that there is a risk in the show’s portrayal of Barney, where what is intended to be mocked may end up being genuinely loved by the audience. He highlighted the success of season 1 in revealing Barney’s insecurities behind his confident facade. Despite this, Barney emerged as a fan favorite known for his iconic catchphrases. Thomas reflected on the show’s evolution, noting the importance of maintaining the depth of the character beyond his womanizing persona. He emphasized the complexity and intrigue of exploring the person behind the mask, rather than simply portraying a cool ladies’ man. Thomas concluded by stating that uncovering the true essence of the character is what makes the show compelling.
