'How I Met Your Mother': Secrets you didn't see coming
What's the story
How I Met Your Mother is a beloved sitcom that aired from 2005 to 2014, winning over viewers with its unique storytelling and memorable characters. As fans know all about Ted, Barney, Robin, Marshall, and Lily's adventures, here are some intriguing behind-the-scenes facts that add depth to the show's legacy. Here are five fascinating insights into what went on behind the cameras during the making of this iconic series.
Character origins
The real-life inspiration for characters
Did you know that the characters in How I Met Your Mother were inspired by real people? Creators Carter Bays and Craig Thomas based Ted Mosby on Bays himself. Marshall and Lily were modeled after Thomas and his wife. Not only did this make the series relatable, but it also added authenticity to the characters's relationships and dynamics throughout the series.
Mystery
The pineapple incident mystery
One of the most iconic episodes is The Pineapple Incident, where Ted wakes up next to his bed with a pineapple, having no recollection of how it got there. Despite fan theories and speculation over the years, the mystery was never solved officially in the show's timeline. It remains one of television's enduring enigmas.
Symbolic prop
The iconic yellow umbrella
The yellow umbrella turned into an iconic symbol in How I Met Your Mother, signifying Ted's road to meeting "the mother." This particular prop was specifically selected for its vibrant color and presence on screen. It was featured in multiple episodes before eventually tying Ted to Tracy McConnell in season eight.
Creative filming
Filming techniques for flashbacks
To fit in a lot of flashbacks and flash-forwards in the story, scenes were often shot out of sequence. This meant that directors had to plan everything to the last detail to maintain continuity over different timelines. Actors had to switch gears quickly between scenes set years apart while maintaining character consistency.
Different endings
The alternate ending controversy
After nine seasons culminating in a much-anticipated finale, an alternate ending was released after fans had mixed reactions towards how things ended for the central characters, Ted and Robin. The alternate version gave viewers another perspective on their favorite storylines, without changing core plot points too much.