You know you love Neil Patrick Harris. That charming smile, those funny smiles, that simple voice—what’s not to love? During his 30-year career, he has dazzled audiences on the big and small screens with standout performances in everything from cult classics to award-winning TV shows. Get ready to speed up as we count down the 10 best Neil Patrick Harris performances.
From playing his over-the-top version in Harold & Kumar to his indelible Barney Stinson performance in How I Met Your Mother, Neil has proven time and time again that he is an entertainer for the ages. So grab some popcorn, crank up “Nothing Suits Me Like a Dress,” and enjoy the recent NPH in his most literal sense.
10 Batman: Under the Red Hood
Batman: Under the Red Hood A dynamic thrill ride! Neil Patrick Harris sings Nightwing, the original Robin, now all grown up and fighting his own crimes. NPH brings his signature charm and humor to the role. His argument with the Joker is absolutely hysterical. You’ll giggle as Nightwing mocks the Joker’s outrageous style and fashion sense.
With a perfect line delivery, NPH portrays Nightwing’s rage and determination to save his protege. You feel the depth of Nightwing’s care for the next generation of heroes. He brings so much passion and personality to every word. His Nightwing steals the show and makes this one of the most entertaining DC Comics films.
9 The Muppets
when The Muppets Released in 2011, NPH stole the show as Gary, the human friend and dancer of Walter, the world’s biggest Muppet fan. His charm and enthusiasm are perfect for the fun, warm atmosphere of the film. The musical numbers are particularly memorable – Gary’s song with Walter, “Man or Muppet,” is a real showrunner.
As Gary helps Walter realize his dream of meeting the Muppets, you can’t help but root for them. NPH brings a lot of humor and sincerity to the role. The way he enthusiastically takes on the zany adventures of the Muppets will make you wish he was your friend too. His positive attitude and words of encouragement to Walter are truly inspiring. With its message about following your dreams and embracing who you are, The Muppets is fun for all ages.
8 The girl is gone
In a chilling psychological thriller The girl is gone, Neil Patrick Harris delivers an unsettlingly thrilling performance as Desi Collings, Amy Dunne’s ex-boyfriend. When Amy mysteriously disappears on her fifth wedding anniversary, all eyes turn to her husband Nick as a suspect. However, as the investigation deepens, Desi turns out to be another possible culprit who has a rather nasty grudge against Amy.
Harris plays Desi with a disarming charm and vulnerability that makes his brutal and predatory character all the more terrifying. His gentle performance is riveting but not overwhelming. Desi appears to be sensitive and caring on the surface but has a more sinister presence than Amy that makes your skin crawl. Harris’ diverse range of roles showcases his range and talent as an actor.
7 Cloudy with chance of meatballs
in Cloudy with chance of meatballs, NPH gives voice to the enthusiastic and enthusiastic mayor of Swallow Falls, a town where food falls from the sky. His high performance and charismatic is positively infectious. As the governor, he willingly accepted the special climate and saw it as An opportunity to put the city on the map as a tourist destination.
This family-friendly animated film is highly imaginative, and NPH’s voice acting helps bring the story to life. His portrayal of the kooky mayor is perfectly suited to the film’s sense of humor and fun. If you’re looking for a fun escape and belly laughs, give this flick a go. The mayor, and NPH, will not be disappointed!
6 8 bit Christmas
If you’re looking for a fun and family-friendly Christmas movie, 8 bit Christmas Sure to put you in the holiday spirit. This lighthearted comedy follows Neil Patrick Harris’ character Jake as he travels back in time to the 1980s.
As Jake reconnects with the era of his childhood, you’ll be overcome with nostalgia for the simpler days of 8-bit video games and music mixes. The retro setting and iconic 80s pop culture references add to the fun and silliness. With the passionate and energetic performance of Neil Patrick Harris, you are guaranteed to feel happy and bright.
5 Undercover brother
in Undercover brotherNPH star opposite Jason Segel are brothers Jake and Josh, secret agents of OSI (Organization of Super Spies). These super spies are not your typical James Bond types. Instead, they’re balls that stumble through their missions, relying more on dumb luck than skill.
Jake and Josh are very fun siblings. They always quarreled and teased each other like real brothers. At the same time, they have each other’s back when things are dangerous. Their silly spy gear, like skateboards powered by rockets, lead to lots of laughs and crazy action sequences.
4 Starship Troopers
in Starship Troopers, NPH plays Carl Jenkins, a psychic soldier who can control alien arachnids with his mind. This sci-fi action movie is a total blast from the past that still holds up today. As a high school student, Carl enlists in the Mobile Infantry to gain citizenship. His army is sent on a rescue mission to a distant planet after training, where they face a giant insectoid alien enemy.
Starship Troopers is a fun, thoughtful film that launched NPH to mainstream stardom. His performance as psychotic Carl steals the show and makes this strange space adventure an unforgettable classic. It’s an entertaining sci-fi romp with an underlying message about citizenship, responsibility and doing your part for the common good.
3 A series of unfortunate events
As Count Olaf, Neil Patrick Harris rocked a really impressive and silly outfit A series of unfortunate events. From his casual impersonation as Captain Sham to his poker-addicted acrobatic handshake as Coach Genghis, Neil embraces the absurdity of each over-the-top character.
His commitment to the quirky and whimsical style of the show brought the zany costumes to life and made them as memorable as his performances. Whether dressing up as a sea captain, a scientist or a bottle salesman, Neil throws himself into each role to the fullest. His comedic timing and ability to embody that personality show his impressiveness and talent as an actor.
2 How did I meet your mother?
for nine seasons, How did I meet your mother? Made us laugh and cry as we followed Ted Mosby’s epic quest for “the one”. This show is pure joy. From Marshall and Lilly’s sweet relationship to Barney’s outrageous antics, HIMYM is a hilarious comedy.
Barney Stinson, the brother’s oldest brother, was outstanding. Neil Patrick Harris plays him with infectious energy and humor. Barney’s elaborate plan to pick up women is ridiculous and over the top. However, under the dress and words, we see the heart of his words. From the first episode, we were hooked. Flash forwarding, callback and continuity reward close attention. The show balances humor and heart with elegance. HIMYM makes us wistful for our own friends and thirst for adventure in the big city.
1 Uncoupled
The last set of Uncoupled A perfect end to such an entertaining show. Neil Patrick Harris brought his A game and had us laughing till the end. His wry humor and wit shine through in every scene. Awkward dating encounters and relationship drama feel too relatable. Neil Michael’s character finally finds love again in the most unexpected place. The cute moments that have come together in the last few minutes are so heartwarming and have me relishing them on my screen.
Uncoupled is a joy to watch from start to finish thanks to Neil’s endearing performance and comedic timing. This show proves that breakups and new beginnings can be funny, awkward, confusing and hopeful – all at the same time. Hopefully Neil will bless us with another project soon because he’s never been happier!
