The yellow umbrella. The blue French horn. The legendary tales of Ted Mosby’s quest for true love – and the indelible friendships forged along the way. How I Met Your Mother (HIMYM) captivated audiences for nine seasons, becoming a cultural touchstone that still resonates today. But while the series found a new lease on life on streaming platforms like Disney+, racking up millions of minutes viewed, you might be wondering: what have the beloved cast members been up to since the show's controversial (but undeniably memorable) finale in 2014? This guide dives deep into the post-HIMYM careers of Josh Radnor, Jason Segel, Cobie Smulders, Neil Patrick Harris, and Alyson Hannigan, revealing where you can catch their latest projects on your favorite streaming services.
At a Glance: Your Guide to the HIMYM Cast's Post-Gang Life
- HIMYM's enduring appeal: The show, which ran from 2005 to 2014, is experiencing a major resurgence on Disney+ globally.
- The Main Crew: Josh Radnor (Ted), Jason Segel (Marshall), Cobie Smulders (Robin), Neil Patrick Harris (Barney), and Alyson Hannigan (Lily)
- Jason Segel: Starring in the critically acclaimed Apple TV+ series Shrinking.
- Cobie Smulders: A fixture in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), also seen in Netflix's The Lincoln Lawyer (Season 4) and the HIMYM spinoff How I Met Your Father (Hulu).
- Neil Patrick Harris: Tackling dramatic roles in shows like Dexter: New Blood and comedies like Uncoupled.
- Alyson Hannigan: Recently in Solo Mio and continuing her presence in voice acting and hosting.
- Josh Radnor: Pursuing diverse roles in film, television, and even music.
- The Spinoffs: While How I Met Your Father had its run, previous attempts to replicate HIMYM's magic haven't quite landed.
The Gang's All Here (Again): Why HIMYM Still Hits Hard
Before we trace the individual paths of the actors, let's acknowledge the phenomenon that was (and is) How I Met Your Mother. Created by Carter Bays and Craig Thomas, the sitcom debuted on CBS in September 2005 and unfolded over 208 episodes, wrapping up in 2014. It was a story wrapped in a framing device, with an older Ted Mosby (voiced by Bob Saget) narrating to his kids the lengthy, circuitous, and often hilarious journey that led him to their mother.
Despite its initial popularity and strong ratings, the show's finale remains a hot topic of debate among fans. But even the divisiveness couldn't diminish its overall impact. Today, thanks to streaming, HIMYM is finding a fresh, global audience. Produced by Disney's 20th Century Studios, it's a Top 10 fixture on Disney+ worldwide, peaking at #5 in countries like Greece and Malta and drawing 17 million minutes viewed. Its longevity, the quality of its early seasons, memorable characters, and a hefty dose of nostalgia all contribute to its renewed success, proving that stories of love, loss, friendship, and self-discovery are indeed timeless.
This resurgence means a new generation is discovering the antics of the gang, and naturally, they're curious about what else these talented actors have been up to. Let's dive into their impressive post-HIMYM resumes.
Jason Segel (Marshall Eriksen): From Funny Man to Deep Thinker
Jason Segel, our beloved "Marshmallow," brought warmth, humor, and a surprisingly deep emotional core to Marshall Eriksen. Post-HIMYM, Segel has continued to impress, often balancing his comedic roots with more dramatic and introspective roles.
His most notable recent success is the Apple TV+ series, Shrinking. In this dramedy, Segel stars as Jimmy Laird, a grieving therapist who begins to tell his patients exactly what he thinks, upending his life and theirs. It's a poignant, funny, and beautifully acted series that showcases Segel's range, pairing him perfectly with Harrison Ford. If you're looking for a show that tackles grief and mental health with humor and heart, Shrinking is a must-watch and a testament to Segel's continued growth as an actor. You can stream Shrinking exclusively on Apple TV+.
Beyond Shrinking, Segel has maintained a presence in film and television. He's known for his roles in comedies he often co-writes, like Forgetting Sarah Marshall and The Muppets, both of which are frequently available across various streaming platforms like Max or for rent/purchase on Amazon Prime Video and Apple TV. His performance in the biographical drama The End of the Tour (available on Hulu or for rent/purchase) as author David Foster Wallace also garnered critical acclaim, proving his dramatic chops long before Shrinking. For a deeper dive into his recent work, you might enjoy this perspective on what makes Jason Segel's performance in Shrinking so compelling.
Cobie Smulders (Robin Scherbatsky): A Marvel of Versatility
Cobie Smulders transformed from the fiercely independent (and secretly vulnerable) Robin Scherbatsky into a genuine action star and dramatic actress. Her biggest post-HIMYM role has been a consistent presence in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) as S.H.I.E.L.D. agent Maria Hill.
You can find Smulders as Maria Hill in multiple MCU films and series, including The Avengers, Captain America: The Winter Soldier, Avengers: Age of Ultron, Avengers: Endgame, and Spider-Man: Far From Home. Most of these are available for streaming on Disney+. She also reprised her role in the Disney+ series Secret Invasion. Her journey through the MCU has been extensive, highlighting her ability to hold her own amongst superheroes and high-stakes espionage. For more on her iconic Marvel contributions, check out discussions around Cobie Smulders' enduring impact in her Marvel roles.
Beyond the MCU, Smulders has explored diverse projects. She joined the cast of Netflix's legal drama The Lincoln Lawyer for its upcoming fourth season, which you'll be able to stream on Netflix. She also made a cameo appearance alongside Jason Segel in Shrinking on Apple TV+, delighting fans with a mini-HIMYM reunion. Perhaps most notably for HIMYM fans, Smulders reprised her role as Robin Scherbatsky in the Hulu spinoff, How I Met Your Father. While the spinoff only ran for two seasons, her appearances were a nostalgic treat, bridging the gap between the original and its successor. You can stream How I Met Your Father on Hulu. If you're curious about the spinoff, read our take on the legacy and lessons of How I Met Your Father.
Neil Patrick Harris (Barney Stinson): Beyond the Bro Code
Neil Patrick Harris, the legendary Barney Stinson, created one of television's most iconic characters with his suit-wearing, laser-tag-loving, and surprisingly complex womanizer. After HIMYM, Harris has leveraged his immense talent across various genres, proving he's far more than just a purveyor of the "Bro Code."
Harris took a darker turn as the chilling villain "The Toymaker" in the limited series Doctor Who: The Fourteenth Doctor Specials, available on Disney+. He also delivered a memorable, if brief, performance in Dexter: New Blood as the troubled serial killer associate, a significant departure from his comedic roles. You can find Dexter: New Blood streaming on Showtime (via Paramount+) or for rent/purchase. His dramatic turn here showcased his ability to bring gravitas to complex characters, building on his stage work and other intense roles. Discover more about Neil Patrick Harris's impactful dramatic roles after HIMYM.
On the lighter side, Harris starred in the Netflix comedy Uncoupled, a romantic comedy about a man navigating the New York City dating scene after his long-term partner leaves him. It's a charming and funny series that allows Harris to flex his comedic timing while exploring more mature themes. You can stream Uncoupled on Showtime (via Paramount+) following its move from Netflix. Harris also hosted the popular competition series Genius Junior (available on Peacock) and voiced characters in animated features and series, solidifying his diverse portfolio. He’s also been a regular on Broadway, most notably winning a Tony for Hedwig and the Angry Inch.
For those specifically looking for NPH's projects, you'll find him widely distributed across platforms, reflecting his versatile career. Speaking of widespread content, if you're looking for more general guidance on where to find your favorite shows and actors, our guide to Netflix How I Met helps break down the streaming landscape.
Alyson Hannigan (Lily Aldrin): Heart, Humor, and Hosting
Alyson Hannigan brought boundless enthusiasm, fierce loyalty, and a touch of mischief to the role of Lily Aldrin, Marshall's kindergarten teacher wife and the gang's emotional anchor. Before HIMYM, Hannigan was already a beloved figure thanks to her iconic roles in Buffy the Vampire Slayer and the American Pie film franchise.
Since HIMYM wrapped, Hannigan has continued to work steadily, often leaning into her comedic strengths and engaging personality as a host. She recently starred in the romantic drama Solo Mio, though specific streaming availability can vary by region. She also showcased her impressive dancing skills on Dancing With the Stars (available on Disney+ and Hulu), charming audiences with her journey.
Voice acting has also been a significant part of her post-HIMYM career. She's lent her voice to animated series like Fancy Nancy (available on Disney+ and Hulu) and Robot Chicken (available on Max). Hannigan has also become a familiar face as a host, notably leading shows like Penn & Teller: Fool Us (available on CW Seed or HBO Max for some seasons) and Kids Baking Championship (available on Discovery+ and Max). Her natural warmth and humor make her a perfect fit for these family-friendly formats. It's a testament to her enduring appeal, much like the lasting impact of her early work, which you can revisit when considering Alyson Hannigan's pivotal role in Buffy the Vampire Slayer.
Josh Radnor (Ted Mosby): From Hopeless Romantic to Multifaceted Artist
Josh Radnor, our perpetually searching protagonist, Ted Mosby, navigated nine seasons of destiny and near-misses. Post-HIMYM, Radnor has deliberately taken on a diverse array of projects, showcasing his talents not only as an actor but also as a writer, director, and musician.
On the acting front, Radnor starred in the musical drama series Rise, where he played a dedicated high school drama teacher. While the show had a single season, it allowed him to explore a more grounded, dramatic role. Rise is available for purchase on platforms like Amazon Prime Video and Apple TV. He also had a recurring role in the Amazon Prime Video series Hunters, a gritty drama about Nazi hunters in 1970s New York, executive produced by Jordan Peele. This marked a significant pivot towards more intense, dramatic material.
Radnor's creative pursuits extend beyond acting. He previously wrote and directed the critically acclaimed indie films happythankyoumoreplease and Liberal Arts, both of which he also starred in. These films often explore themes of identity, connection, and the quarter-life crisis, much like HIMYM, but through a more independent, auteur lens. You can typically find these films available for rent or purchase on most major streaming platforms.
Furthermore, Radnor is an accomplished musician, performing and releasing music under his own name and as part of the folk-rock duo Radnor and Lee. His music often features thoughtful lyrics and melodic compositions, reflecting his artistic sensibilities. While his music isn't a "streaming show," his albums are available on platforms like Spotify and Apple Music, offering another avenue to appreciate his creative output. His career trajectory highlights a commitment to artistic expression across various mediums, truly making him a multifaceted artist.
The Other Friends: A Quick Look at Recurring Characters
While the core five form the heart of HIMYM, the show wouldn't be complete without its memorable recurring cast. Here are a few notable examples:
- Cristin Milioti (Tracy McConnell / The Mother): After captivating audiences as the titular Mother, Milioti has built an impressive resume. She starred in the critically acclaimed HBO Max series Made for Love and the Hulu comedy Palm Springs, showcasing her comedic timing and dramatic depth. You can also find her in The Penguin on Max.
- Sarah Chalke (Stella Zinman): Known for her role as Dr. Elliot Reid in Scrubs, Chalke has continued her prolific voice acting career in shows like Rick and Morty (Max/Hulu) and Paradise PD (Netflix). She also starred in the Netflix drama Firefly Lane.
- Wayne Brady (James Stinson): Barney's charismatic brother, Brady remains a highly successful television personality, host, and improviser. He's a regular on Whose Line Is It Anyway? (CW Seed/Max) and has hosted numerous game shows and made guest appearances across sitcoms.
These actors, and many others who graced the screens of HIMYM, continue to shape the streaming landscape with their diverse talents, ensuring that fans always have something new to discover.
Navigating the Streaming Universe: Your Next Steps
The world of streaming can feel vast and overwhelming, but knowing where your favorite HIMYM cast members are landing makes the search a lot more targeted. As you've seen, they're not confined to one platform, which is great news for variety but means you might need subscriptions to multiple services like Apple TV+, Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, Max, and Paramount+ with Showtime to catch all their work.
Here’s how to make the most of your viewing:
- Check Your Current Subscriptions: Start with what you already have. Many of the films and shows mentioned might be available there.
- Utilize Streaming Search Engines: Websites and apps like Reelgood, JustWatch, or Even have universal search functions that tell you exactly which platform a movie or show is streaming on, whether it's included with a subscription, or available for rent/purchase.
- Consider Free Trials: If a specific show you really want to watch is on a platform you don't subscribe to, take advantage of free trials. Just remember to cancel before the trial ends if you don't plan to keep it.
- Rent or Purchase: For older films or shows not on a subscription service, renting or purchasing digitally through platforms like Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, or Google Play Movies is always an option.
- Keep an Eye on News: Streaming content rotates frequently. A show might move platforms, or a new season might drop. Following entertainment news sites or the actors themselves on social media can keep you updated.
The enduring legacy of How I Met Your Mother is a testament to its compelling storytelling and, crucially, its unforgettable cast. Their continued success in diverse roles means that while Ted may have found his mother, you'll never run out of amazing projects starring your favorite gang to discover. So, grab your popcorn, settle in, and get ready for your next legendary binge.