Spotlight On: Neil Patrick Harris

Neil Patrick Harris has been acting, singing and dancing his way into the hearts of audiences for almost 30 years. His latest project, the NBC variety show 'Best Time Ever,' premieres September 15, and we can't wait. Here’s a look at the highlights of this talented triple threat's career.  

David Hart in 'Clara’s Heart' (1988)

Audiences first fell in love with Harris when he played David opposite Whoopi Goldberg in this tender dramedy. The Hollywood Foreign Press took notice too, nominating the young actor for a Best Supporting Actor Golden Globe award.  

Dr. Doogie Howser in 'Doogie Howser, M.D.' (1989-1993)

Producers had the right prescription for success when they cast NPH in the role of child doctor Doogie Howser. The show ran for five seasons and earned its star his second Golden Globe nomination -- this time for Best Lead Actor in a Television Series.

Carl Jenkins in 'Starship Troopers' (1997)

After nine years of television and stage appearances, NPH returned to the silver screen in this science fiction blockbuster. Harris was slated to reprise his role as the psychic Colonel Carl Jenkins in the fourth installment of the franchise; however, conflicts with his shooting schedule on 'How I Met Your Mother' prohibited him from participating in the project.  

Peter Parker/Spiderman in 'Spiderman: The New Animated Series' (2003)

We always knew Harris had superhero-like talents. That’s why we weren’t surprised when he was cast as the web slinger in MTV's short-lived animated series. Spidey wasn’t the actor’s only brush with superhero stardom; Harris also voiced the Flash in the 2008 animated movie 'Justice League: The New Frontier.'

Neil Patrick Harris in 'Harold and Kumar Go to White Castle' (2004)

Harris played a role that came quite naturally to him -- himself. Never one to take himself too seriously, the actor reprised his tongue-in-cheek portrayal in both of the film’s sequels.

Barney Stinson in 'How I Met Your Mother' (2005-2014)

In a resume full of great performances, this one stands out above the others. A television staple for 10 hilarious seasons, the show cemented NPH’s status as a Hollywood icon. In addition to two People's Choice Awards for Favorite TV Actor, the role also earned the star four Emmy and two Golden Globe Award nominations.   

Dr. Horrible in 'Dr. Horrible’s Sing-Along Blog' (2008)

With his television series shut down by the 2008 Writers Guild strike, NPH took his talents to the Internet, where he starred in Joss Whedon’s 'Dr. Horrible’s Sing-Along Blog.' It became the #1 TV series on iTunes for five weeks.

Steve in 'Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs' (2009)

Audiences everywhere went bananas for Harris’ performance as the impish chimp Steve in this animated hit and its sequel. The actor was originally offered the film’s lead role of Flint, but he felt that Steve’s monkey business would be more interesting.

Patrick Winslow in 'The Smurfs' (2011)

The actor joined “Team Blue” for both films in this popular children’s franchise. Full of pratfalls and physical comedy, the star’s turn as the Smurfs human guide had audiences laughing until their faces turned blue. He returned in 2013 for the sequel.

Foy in 'A Million Ways to Die in the West' (2014)

As Foy, NPH takes center stage in one of the film’s best sequences -- the highly choreographed and riotously funny “Mustache Song.” While the movie wasn't a big hit, Harris' turn in the Seth MacFarlane comedy is considered one of 'West''s highlights. 

Desi Collings in 'Gone Girl'

He played a small but pivotal role in David Fincher's thriller, the wealthy ex-boyfriend of a woman who first frames him for her abduction, then... well, you'll have to see the movie to find out. 

Don't miss Harris in 'Best Week Ever,' starting Sept. 15 on NBC.