A decade after the iconic yellow umbrella closed for the final time, the beloved cast of How I Met Your Mother sent fans into a frenzy with an emotional reunion at Emerald City Comic Con (ECCC) in Seattle.
The panel, featuring Josh Radnor (Ted), Cobie Smulders (Robin), and the legendary Neil Patrick Harris (Barney), became an instant nostalgia trip, revealing behind-the-scenes secrets and heartfelt memories from their nine years on the hit CBS sitcom.
Legen—Wait For It—Dary Secrets Revealed
Neil Patrick Harris, the mastermind behind the suit-loving, bro-code-enforcing Barney Stinson, finally answered the burning question on every fan's mind: the origin of his character's iconic catchphrase. Contrary to popular belief, the legendary "Legen—wait for it—dary!" wasn't scripted. Harris revealed it was a spontaneous improvisation that the writers loved so much, they kept it in.
"It just felt like something Barney would do," Harris explained to the cheering crowd. "He'd build something up so much that he'd have to pause for dramatic effect. It was just a silly thing that stuck."
An Emotional Trip Down Memory Lane
The reunion wasn't just about laughs. Josh Radnor, who played the hopeless romantic Ted Mosby, shared a poignant moment about the show's lasting impact. He spoke about the unique experience of filming the series finale years before it aired, a secret the cast had to fiercely protect from spoiler-hungry fans.
Cobie Smulders, who portrayed career-driven journalist Robin Scherbatsky, reflected on her character's evolution and the profound friendship she built with her on-screen husband, played by the absent Jason Segel.
The panel also paid a moving tribute to the late David Burtka, Harris's husband, who was a constant and supportive presence on set, often helping the cast run lines.
A Lasting Legacy
A decade on, the cast is still amazed by the show's enduring popularity and its ability to find new audiences through streaming services. The reunion served as a powerful reminder of why How I Met Your Mother remains a cultural touchstone—a perfect blend of humour, heart, and the timeless quest for love and friendship.
