To some he will forever be teen doctor Doogie Howser. But those more familiar with Harris' career know that he has successfully transformed himself from a baby-faced lead into a versatile character actor. After making an auspicious film debut in 1988's
Clara's Heart, Harris became known for his small-screen work, including
Doogie Howser, M.D. and a plethora of TV-movies. As an adult, he moved to big-screen supporting parts (the lone white guy in 1997's
Undercover Brother, a scientist in 2002's
Starship Troopers) and even conquered Broadway with his impressively powerful vocals in
Cabaret and
Assassins. In 2005, he returned to series television as a womanizing wise guy on
How I Met Your Mother, a particularly ironic role considering there had long been rumors that Harris was gay. While he initially remained mum on the subject (although he did poke fun at his ambiguous sexual orientation on
Will & Grace when he guest-starred as a "reformed" homosexual), he officially came out in November 2006.
Neil Patrick Harris Fast Facts:
- First stage role was Toto in an elementary school production of The Wizard of Oz.
- Parents are both lawyers and own Perennials Restaurant in Albuquerque.
- Discovered by Clara's Heart screenwriter Mark Medoff while attending a youth drama camp and was subsequently cast in the film.
- An amateur magician and has performed tricks on late-night TV shows.
- Made his Broadway debut in 2002 in Proof.
- Neil Patrick Harris Relationships:
- Brian Harris - Brother
- David Burtka - Significant Other
- Ron Harris - Father
- Sheila Harris - Mother
- Neil Patrick Harris Awards:
- 1989 Golden Globe: Best Performance by an Actor in a Supporting Role in a Motion Picture - Nominee
- 1992 Golden Globe: Best Performance by an Actor in a Television Series - Musical or Comedy - Nominee
- 2007 Emmy: Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series - Nominee
- 2008 Emmy: Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series - Nominee
- 2009 Golden Globe: Best Performance by an Actor in a Supporting Role in a Series, Miniseries or Motion Picture Made for Television - Nominee
- 2009 Emmy: Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series - Nominee
- 1990 People's Choice Awards: Favorite Male Performer in a New TV Series - Winner
