It's Official: Britney's Returning to Mother!

• Apr 28, 2008 04:57 PM ET
• by Michael Ausiello

Neil Patrick Harris is going to be so pissed thrilled!

A spokesperson for How I Met Your Mother is confirming what I first hinted at earlier this month: Britney Spears has officially signed on to reprise her role as Abby for one episode during May sweeps.

In the episode, titled "Everything Must Go," Barney and Abby realize that they have one thing in common - their mutual hatred of Ted. The new "couple" decide to go to the bar to flaunt their new relationship in Ted's face. Desperate to get a rise out of his former pal, Barney pops a surprising question to Abby.

I know what you're thinking: Barney hates Ted!? Fallout from his makeout session with Robin last week, perhaps?

"We're all so thrilled to have Britney joining us once again," said executive producer and co-creator Craig Thomas in a statement. "And just to head it off at the pass this time around: Yes, Mom, Britney's very nice and no, I can't get her autograph for you."

Production on Brit's ep begins today and is scheduled to air May 12.