• Network: CBS
  • Series Premiere Date: Sep 19, 2005
Season #: 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1
User Score
8.5

Universal acclaim- based on 959 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Negative: 68 out of 959
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User Reviews

  1. NoraH.
    Dec 21, 2009
    10
    This is a great show . I never thought I`d say this, but it might even be better than friends! 10/10
  2. MG
    Dec 15, 2009
    0
    This show is safe thanks to The Big Bang Theory and 2 1/2 Men. People leave the TV on between these two shows and Nielsen thinks that they have a winner on their hands. Not! Lame actors, unfunny, and not everybody wants to live vicariously through alcoholic twentysomethings with issues. Sucks! Oh and the person who compared it to Seinfeld? Please send me whatever you are smoking.
  3. KK
    Dec 15, 2009
    0
    alyson hannigan has to be the least funny actress of all time. her humor is like what you'd expect from a junior high kid doing a school comedy. all the characters annoy me (ted's frustrating depsperation, barney's predictability, marshal's sappy optimism and poor acting)... but hannigan is the WORST!
  4. RyanD
    Dec 13, 2009
    10
    This is one of the best shows on TV. It is funny, well crafted and entertaining. 10/10 for Sure !
  5. DeanW
    Dec 9, 2009
    0
    This is one of the most UNfunny shows I've ever seen. The acting is terrible, the premise is weak. And on top of all of that, how in the heck can Doogie Howser be taken seriously as a Womanizer? Get real. The fact that this show is popular is baffling. It would've never survived during the haydays of TV Sitcoms that were actually interesting and funny and had great actors. I This is one of the most UNfunny shows I've ever seen. The acting is terrible, the premise is weak. And on top of all of that, how in the heck can Doogie Howser be taken seriously as a Womanizer? Get real. The fact that this show is popular is baffling. It would've never survived during the haydays of TV Sitcoms that were actually interesting and funny and had great actors. I give this piece of crap a ZERO, and advise people to go back and watch REAL good shows like Seinfeld, The Cosby Show, and Family Matters. That's how sitcoms are supposed to be done. HIMYM is a joke, but I'm not laughing. Expand
  6. JT
    Dec 1, 2009
    8
    I hated this show at first. I thought the premise was lame, the narration was awkward and NPH was too one-dimensional. Then I gave it an honest shot. Now I can hardly get enough! It's not the best nor the funniest show on TV, but it's close. (Note: I still don't really like the first season mostly because Ted is so whiny).
  7. PeterH
    Nov 26, 2009
    10
    This show is amazing! I know a lot of people are slating the show saying it isn't funny and whatever and I can see that if you just watch the odd episode then you might be somewhat justified in that opinion. But seriously, watch it from the beginning and I assure you that you will love it! It truly is one of the cleverest sitcoms ever made and to anyone who thinks it isn't well This show is amazing! I know a lot of people are slating the show saying it isn't funny and whatever and I can see that if you just watch the odd episode then you might be somewhat justified in that opinion. But seriously, watch it from the beginning and I assure you that you will love it! It truly is one of the cleverest sitcoms ever made and to anyone who thinks it isn't well written...you are just wrong! All I'd say is that even if you don't like it at first and don't think it's as funny as some others out there, stick with it and you will grow to love it and see that sitcoms don't just have to be about laughs all the time. The best show ever! Expand
  8. AlexanderO
    Nov 23, 2009
    10
    This show is just legen- wait for it.... - dary! I can't remember the last time I watched a show this good. It's not only hillarious, but also heartwarming and cute. I simply love it, and hope it will continue to air for years to come!
  9. SusanH
    Nov 16, 2009
    10
    I have never laughed aloud like I do for this show. It's so clever, witty and adroit. I could watch each episode over and over and still find things to laugh about. I love the tie ins from week to week.
  10. KobeBryant
    Nov 16, 2009
    2
    Others have said it before. The actors are reading lines they dont believe is funny. It's really bad writing. I think the actors on the show can do a lot better than this.
  11. MattM
    Oct 26, 2009
    8
    This show was recommended to me by a friend. At that point, I was anxious for something good to watch, as I had just finished with Arrested Development on DVD, and was waiting for Dollhouse to come back. On the whole, I found this show to be extremely well written and acted, but less funny than it should have been. The humor reminds me a lot of Friends, with a group of hip 20-somethings This show was recommended to me by a friend. At that point, I was anxious for something good to watch, as I had just finished with Arrested Development on DVD, and was waiting for Dollhouse to come back. On the whole, I found this show to be extremely well written and acted, but less funny than it should have been. The humor reminds me a lot of Friends, with a group of hip 20-somethings joking about sex and relationships, among many other things, but for some reason, I don't find myself laughing as hard as I would expect. Perhaps without the laugh track it would feel more natural, but as it is, the show feels very much like a dramedy trapped as a sitcom. Overall, very much worth it (Neil Patrick Harris, as the one unequivocally hilarious part of the show, is by himself enough to carry the humor), but nevertheless, expect to be entertained by smart writing and clever catchphrases, as opposed to the jokes themselves, which are generally good but not great. Expand
  12. alex
    Oct 9, 2009
    9
    Great show, started off a little slow in the first season, not much chemistry and writing was pretty lame. But from there it took off as the characters became more hilarious
  13. MikeM
    Oct 1, 2009
    10
    Talented and funny cast with great chemistry, backed by a clever script make this the best sitcom since Seinfeld.
  14. HuyB
    Sep 25, 2009
    10
    Neil Patrick Harris is a completely incredible actor. The rest of the cast is very solid. The one-liners are original and don't get old. The story of How I Met Your Mother is very lengthy and as much as I'd like to know the ending, who the mother is, and how Ted met her...I don't mind never knowing as long as the story continues.
  15. GuilhermeM
    Sep 19, 2009
    10
    This show is awesome.
  16. MichelleW
    Sep 3, 2009
    9
    This show is very entertaining. The comedy is through the roof. And the suspense build up for who the Mother is keeps you watching. Great show.
  17. RounakJ.
    Aug 24, 2009
    10
    The best narrating style,and on top of it there's Barney!
  18. FeodorC.
    Aug 23, 2009
    10
    One of the best TV shows, I've ever seen!
  19. JacyL.
    Aug 2, 2009
    10
    One Word Legend ... Wait for it ... Dary ! Great Show, great plot, kept me laughing the whole way through.
  20. VedranB
    Jul 30, 2009
    10
    Finally, after long time, worthy successor to legendary Seinfeld. Fine actors, good stories, and quite original flashback format. Clear 10!
  21. dhruvk
    Jul 25, 2009
    10
    Its ideal combination of comedy and storyline the links that are made from one episode to other is simply mesmerizing in fact this show rocks.
  22. SalilC
    Jul 1, 2009
    10
    The best show ever!!!
  23. sg
    Jun 24, 2009
    10
    best show ever
  24. DavidG
    Jun 23, 2009
    10
    A simply put, four years lasting Life Lesson.
  25. HC
    Jun 7, 2009
    9
    One word: LEGENDARY!! It's a great show that's really fun, people don't rate it as high as it should be.
  26. JohnS
    May 28, 2009
    10
    This is an amazingly funny and addicting show. Highly recommended.
  27. PorphyroU.
    May 21, 2009
    4
    Bad show is bad. Poorly written with annoying actors (I want to punch Jason Segel in the face every time I see him), this series continues to thrive only on Barney Stinson's catchphrase, from what I can tell. An indictment against the intelligence of TV viewers.
  28. HossamD
    May 15, 2009
    9
    This one of the best Series for years, there is some twists in the story that you don't expect in this kind of comedies, Neil did a great job also.
  29. GuilhermeM
    May 9, 2009
    10
    This show is awesome.
  30. EmilyR
    May 8, 2009
    10
    This is my favorite show that's currently on TV, and it has been since it started! I laugh out loud every week but I've also cried a couple of times and I love the characters.
  31. DanielleD
    Apr 26, 2009
    10
    Every week I eagerly await the newest episode of How I Met Your Mother... isn't that what great TV is? Not just whatever is on when you finally have time to watch... but actively seeking a show and watching every single episode!! To the reviewer that said the cast have no chemistry, I really would like to know what show you were actually watching? Cause it wasn't this one.
  32. ThomasB
    Mar 11, 2009
    10
    Fantastic show!
  33. JacobC
    Feb 2, 2009
    10
    I can't remember a show where i have laughed so hard i could cry over and over. The cast is using their incredible talent to the max. Mondays can't come soon enough
  34. CLeung
    Jan 25, 2009
    9
    So many different opinions about this show. I love it, and I hated Friends, dislike pretty much every romantic comedy I've ever seen. Yet i follow this show religiously. I guess the writing is really witty and the characters really connect with the viewer.
  35. JorgeG
    Jan 10, 2009
    8
    Great show. I do like the writing, though perhaps their rely on sitcom stereotypes too often. I guess that's just unavoidable sometimes. Alright, the figure of Barney is exagerated to create a cult character, but let's face it: he HAS some memorable moments.
  36. M.A.
    Jan 3, 2009
    10
    The show is cute and witty, but Neil Patrick Harris' character takes the show to incredible heights.
  37. JayB.
    Dec 7, 2008
    0
    This show is sad. They try to make it appealing to the drinking crowd by having a lot of scenes in a bar, but it doesn't work. Cheers was classy and funny, this show and it's actors are pathetic.
  38. AndyB.
    Dec 1, 2008
    10
    Only show I schedule around; best sitcom on television. Neil Patrick Harris is a constant source of laughs, and it's impossible not to fall in love with Ted (Josh Radnor).
  39. EvanH.
    Sep 30, 2008
    10
    It's like Friends, but updated, funnier, and with more meaning. Four seasons on, it's grown up and become even more. Excellent show.
  40. AdamA
    Sep 23, 2008
    9
    The characters aren't the best (save for Barney), but their interplay makes up for it. I love it, but it may not be for everyone.
  41. DanielR.
    Sep 21, 2008
    6
    Love the cast...but the show isn't that funny. Perhaps it would work better without the laugh track and the sit-com staginess? It just seems that with the talent involved, it could be so much better.
  42. AndrewC.
    Aug 9, 2008
    10
    You will either love or hate this show. Actually you probably wont hate it, but you wont like it enough to care. The characters are charming and - I find - very easy to relate to. Barney makes the comedy, mostly due to the way the other characters are so unlike him, but he tries to convert them anyway. If you don't love this show in the first couple of episodes, then give up on it. You will either love or hate this show. Actually you probably wont hate it, but you wont like it enough to care. The characters are charming and - I find - very easy to relate to. Barney makes the comedy, mostly due to the way the other characters are so unlike him, but he tries to convert them anyway. If you don't love this show in the first couple of episodes, then give up on it. If you like it, however, keep going because most of what I've seen so far is gold. Expand
  43. EddieJ.
    Aug 7, 2008
    10
    It's one of the best shows on tv. it's the nearest thing to real life on tv. It's funny (not the funniest) but it's very easy to relate to. i think if you watch enough episodes you'll start to see yourself and your friends in the show. i and also think it's more for an group between 24-35 yrs. old.
  44. PhilM.
    Jul 11, 2008
    0
    How is this SAD,SAD show even still on? I think the only thing keeping this show afloat is Doogie Howser there and thats not sayin a lot since he's no good either.
  45. StephenR.
    Jun 15, 2008
    10
    The best thing since sliced bread... you must be having a laugh this challenges the wheel! Although Harris steals the show the cast are all excellent. With witty, unpredictable one liners and cleverly humerous storylines the show is to rival "friends as the greatest sitcom ever!
  46. NicholasK.
    May 19, 2008
    0
    give me a break. this show blows, BIG TIME. This isn't humor its totally stupid. Its created by hacks who could not cut it in real comedy writing. Come to think of it, these writers are just one step below the guys who write Two and a Half Men, an equally stupid show that's only worth watching muted.
  47. Nicole
    Apr 16, 2008
    10
    Amazing. This show is so much better than any and every other sitcom. It has so much heart and these characters are the type of people I would actually want to hang out with in real life. Most importantly, however, it is DIFFERENT than those other shows about young urban groups of friends thanks to its really unique story lines and editing styles.
  48. JenW.
    Jan 29, 2008
    9
    This is one of the only sitcoms that I have ever actually laughed at. I find it much funnier than friends-the individual characters on this show are much more interesting than Ross and Rachel. Let's hope this continues to get renewed-it's a rare gem in a sea of crappy t.v.
  49. LoisW.
    Jan 2, 2008
    9
    Only reason I give it 9 instead of 10 is because it makes me uneasy that Ted and Robin do not end up together. Like how many variations on a theme can we get until Robin has to go, or a new character comes in? And I don't want that! Also, Barney is SO funny - we need more stories about his life, like a few in season one. He comes across in some shows like an unwelcome outsider. But Only reason I give it 9 instead of 10 is because it makes me uneasy that Ted and Robin do not end up together. Like how many variations on a theme can we get until Robin has to go, or a new character comes in? And I don't want that! Also, Barney is SO funny - we need more stories about his life, like a few in season one. He comes across in some shows like an unwelcome outsider. But he is the funniest character! Love this show. Oh! the catch phrases: "it's gonna be a thing" or "had to"... or lemon law. Expand
  50. JohnH.
    Dec 18, 2007
    10
    This show really grew on me after a few episodes. I hope it goes on for many seasons to come!
  51. Karan
    Dec 15, 2007
    8
    I actually like the way it makes you follow the leads in the story but it used to be much funnier than the recent episodes. The FUN part of the series is fading gradually! But the previous seasons were VEREY funny!
  52. Natalieo
    Oct 8, 2007
    6
    The jokes get a bit old after a while
  53. Natasha
    Oct 7, 2007
    9
    I disagree with those who compare the show to Friends, because it's totally individual. It doesn't astonish or shock the viewer, but it us sure to raise your spirits.
  54. KevinM.
    Sep 24, 2007
    10
    Very funny show. Comedy is real and i love the Bob Saget narrating. This show has something for everybody.
  55. JasonM.
    Sep 12, 2007
    7
    It's nothing groundbreaking, but it's consistent and always leaves you with a good feeling. The plots are usually pretty funny although some are just typical sitcom ones. The highlight of the show is definitely the characters though.
  56. Tim
    Sep 4, 2007
    2
    Wow I can't believe they're still making Friends knockoffs, Well it's been a while so I guess it was only a matter of time until a Friends ripoff finally became a hit. Staring people from Saved by the Bell: the New class nonetheless.
  57. sg
    Aug 28, 2007
    10
    best show ever
  58. Meg
    Aug 23, 2007
    9
    My entire family LOVES watching this show. It is very funny and i think Neil Patrick Harris plays a very hilarious Barney. However it is very funny it doesnt crab my attention like Friends. the cast of Friends were a lot closer thant the How I met Your Mother characters.
  59. Jessica
    Aug 16, 2007
    10
    I never would compare this to Friends. So much better. I'm glad there's none of that sexual tension going on here. It would take away from the show.
  60. Daniel
    Jul 26, 2007
    10
    Great TV!
  61. Ally
    Jul 26, 2007
    10
    Love this show!
  62. philr
    Jul 21, 2007
    3
    fun plot, shallow dialogue and acting, great for the blissfully ignorant camp. i'm spoiled with scrubs
  63. Becky
    May 30, 2007
    8
    this show is very funny, and i've just started watching it. Some of the writing is weak though, and i thought The Class was more fun and interesting, but i will keep watching this show.
  64. RamyS
    May 24, 2007
    9
    At first I wasn't really a huge fan of the show. But then I actually wastched it and Boy am I glad to be addicted to this show. Its clever, fresh and fun. Its the next generation of friends, but better. The characters .have great one liners which are remebered. And theres Barney. He completes the Show. A lot of what he says sticks to mind, and is somewhat true. Amaizing show and At first I wasn't really a huge fan of the show. But then I actually wastched it and Boy am I glad to be addicted to this show. Its clever, fresh and fun. Its the next generation of friends, but better. The characters .have great one liners which are remebered. And theres Barney. He completes the Show. A lot of what he says sticks to mind, and is somewhat true. Amaizing show and should be kept for a while Expand
  65. philg
    May 22, 2007
    10
    this show is laugh out loud hillarous. It might not be good for little kids but is the best show on tv no dought.I hope this show stays on for a long time and the person thatt gave the show a zero is on crack and he deffinatly dosent no what comety is about.
  66. RaisaJ
    Apr 19, 2007
    5
    Funny parts but sinking fast after a decent first season. The women characters are weak.
  67. JohnR
    Apr 17, 2007
    10
    Awesome!
  68. LJGee
    Apr 16, 2007
    10
    Greatest show ever!! It makes me laugh harder than anything else I can remember.
  69. SusanJ
    Mar 29, 2007
    9
    The show can be truly funny and in the next second be dramatic. But the theme can be frustrating at times, feeling a bit drug out.
  70. [Anonymous]
    Mar 19, 2007
    0
    How is this show still on TV...it should never have made it past ep. 2. Even the canned laugh track is getting tired of this show.
  71. SwarlesBarkley
    Mar 19, 2007
    10
    Certainly in the top 5 best written sitcoms currently airing. Consistently funny and cleverly plotted.
  72. FengZ
    Mar 18, 2007
    9
    actually between 8 and 9 cleverest script among recent ones. fine cast. love it.
  73. AndyR
    Mar 10, 2007
    10
    Clever and consistently funny - "friends" for the next generation.
  74. DaveB
    Mar 7, 2007
    0
    Worse sitcom since Will and Grace. Willow should call Buffy to stake the writers. I find it amusing that 69 critics found it favorable when I could wear out my tongue complaining about everything that sucks about this show.
  75. jordanb
    Mar 5, 2007
    0
    this show annoys the sh*t out of me.
  76. TylerG
    Feb 27, 2007
    10
    this show is the best show on television, hands down, its great comedy, great drama, and great acting is what makes it the best
  77. TinaW
    Jan 31, 2007
    10
    Funny, touching
  78. LauraJ
    Jan 15, 2007
    10
    Love the Show!
  79. jimc
    Nov 20, 2006
    10
    Funny show. I make sure to watch it every week.
  80. heyjou
    Sep 28, 2006
    9
    i think the show is really good, Neil patrick harris the best comedy actor ever
  81. alanr
    Sep 25, 2006
    10
    Intelligent, well-written show. And it's funny.
  82. AlexP
    Sep 21, 2006
    10
    A very funny show that has been largely underrated in my opinion. The cast works well together, and there is an obvious chemistry between them. The show is worth watching just for Neil Patrick Harris as Barney. The rest of the cast fills in the show nicely, and they get themselves into some strange and amusing situations. Consistantly funny.
  83. davidr
    Sep 19, 2006
    10
    Best show on television hands down.
  84. Kevin
    Sep 4, 2006
    0
    Awful. Not funny, poorly acted, boring.
  85. ErikN
    Aug 14, 2006
    10
    I love this show! Since Friends left the air, we have been searching for a surrogate (since nothing could ever replace Friends). HIMYM is the next best thing.
  86. JB
    Aug 12, 2006
    4
    I wanted to like this show for the actors' sake. I'm sorry to say that I can't. The show lacks rythme, any sense of comedic timing and a sense of chemistry as amongst the actors. Worse are the lines they're forced to say, stilted and artificial as they are.
  87. nonyanonya
    Jul 17, 2006
    0
    this show sucks
  88. CrazyA
    Jun 18, 2006
    9
    Nice, laid back, easy-going humor, nice feeling for timing. Characters are more real-life than some other shows. The little jokes and remarks are like the ones you think of just after it would have been funny so say. Most sitcoms will put a character in a tricky situation, which will be solved just before the end of the show. This doesn't need that trick to fil an episode.
  89. gulce!!!!!!!!!!
    Jun 15, 2006
    10
    i love that show jason segal is awesome he was awesome in freaks and geeks too its a gr8 show..
  90. JenG
    May 9, 2006
    10
    Makes me laugh out loud every episode. The characters are so relatable and real; it's like watching my life (only much, much funnier!).
  91. GavinD
    Apr 17, 2006
    10
    The most enjoyable comedy on TV!
  92. sg
    Apr 5, 2006
    10
    best show ever
  93. PaulMcCartney
    Mar 19, 2006
    7
    I loved this show when it first came on, but it has been in decline. They need to focus less on Ted's desperate search for love and more on the fun of his life, with interpersing bits of his love, a la Scrubs
  94. JoeBruin
    Feb 28, 2006
    10
    My favorite show by far. Love the show and the great writing. The characters, especially Barney, are well developed and interesting. Barney is the funniest character, Harris is fantastic. Please keep it going! I can't wait to see the story unfold.
  95. StacieS
    Jan 30, 2006
    10
    This is the best show on TV right now. Keep it goingi!
  96. Tiffany
    Jan 27, 2006
    9
    The cast have a chemistry between them that does not always exist in television. John Randor is such a nice guy that it is hard to hate him, while Harris is so funny that it makes it even more difficult to hate him. It seems that this cast has such likeable personalities that you can't hate anything they do.
  97. NovC
    Jan 26, 2006
    10
    Has a cast of characters that you care about from the moment you watch them... a very rare quality for most shows nowadays...
  98. Jen
    Jan 21, 2006
    9
    A standout cast. Unpredictable writing. Funny and witty and warm. Uneven at times, but well worth watching.
  99. NCdudeHIMYM
    Jan 19, 2006
    9
    A better version of friends. Funny, wit and young.
  100. ChristinaY
    Dec 13, 2005
    10
    I like the show very much. In the episode 10, I feel a little sad when Robin asked Ted " Then why do you hide her for me?", and the music goes on... I feel eager to see the next episode.
Metascore
69

Generally favorable reviews - based on 25 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 16 out of 25
  2. Negative: 3 out of 25
  1. Boston Globe
    Reviewed by: Matthew Gilbert
    80
    Like ''Friends," this is not a big-themed series so much as a bunch of little character jokes and relationship confusions getting batted around by an able cast.
  2. 38
    The script is just poor.
  3. Chicago Tribune
    Reviewed by: Maureen Ryan
    80
    Manages to get the balance of cuddliness and snark just right.