Hulu’s ‘How I Met Your Father’ Bids Farewell After Two Seasons
It’s a sad day for Hulu’s ‘How I Met Your Father’ (HIMYF) fans as the show bids farewell after just two seasons. While CBS’s ‘How I Met Your Mother’ concluded over seven years ago, viewers were given a brief respite with Hilary Duff’s portrayal of Sophie, a character in the HIMYM spin-off series. This marked Duff’s return to television after the successful seven-season run of ‘Younger.’
The pilot episode, directed by HIMYM veteran Pam Fryman, instilled hope among fans, knowing that the same creative forces were behind this new venture. Original series creators Carter Bays and Craig Thomas returned, while Isaac Aptaker and Elizabeth Berger took the reins as show-runners.
In a statement, Bays and Thomas expressed their gratitude: “Kids, I’m going to tell you an incredible story: It’s the story of how two writers got lucky enough to make their dream TV show for nine seasons and now get to pass the torch to an inspired new creative team with their own incredible story to tell, the story of How I Met Your Father. We are honored by their passion and vision and look forward to helping them tell a legendary new story. Thanks to all the HIMYM fans out there who waited for it.”
Here’s everything you need to know about HIMYF:
When Did the Show Air?
Hulu announced on November 17 that the series would premiere on January 18, 2022. An official trailer dropped on Dec. 16, offering a glimpse into Sophie’s (Hilary Duff) tumultuous love life and her antics with friends. The surprise appearance of Kim Cattrall as the future narrator, Sophie, added an exciting twist.
What Was Duff’s Role in the Show?
Duff took on the role of Sophie, the show’s protagonist and narrator, recounting how she met her son’s father. Set in 2021, the plot revolves around Sophie and her tight-knit group of friends, all residing in the heart of New York City. Duff also served as a producer on the series.
“I’ve been fortunate in my career to play some wonderful characters, and I’m looking forward to taking on the role of Sophie. As a huge fan of How I Met Your Mother, I’m honored and even a little nervous that [HIMYM creators] Carter and Craig would trust me with the sequel of their baby,” Duff shared.
What Was the Show’s Format?
HIMYF employed multi-camera and single-camera techniques reminiscent of the original series. Sophie’s narrative mirrors Ted Mosby’s, guiding her son through the challenges of dating, working, and forging enduring friendships in the digital age of social media and dating apps.
Who Were the Key Cast Members?
Apart from Duff, Francia Raisa played Sophie’s roommate, Valentina, while Kim Cattrall portrayed the future Sophie, narrating her story to her children. Tom Ainsley took on the role of Valentina’s boyfriend, Charlie, and Chris Lowell played Jesse, an aspiring musician and Uber driver. Suraj Sharma appeared as Sid, Jesse’s roommate and bar owner, with Tien Tran as Jesse’s adopted sister, Ellen.
Josh Peck, known for his role in ‘Drake & Josh,’ joined as Drew, a handsome vice principal. Ashley Reyes played Hannah, a surgical resident, and Daniel Augustin portrayed Sophie’s Tinder match, Ian.
How Many Seasons Did ‘How I Met Your Father’ Have?
The series had a first season of ten episodes, followed by an expanded second season with 19 episodes. Unfortunately, on September 1, it was announced that the show would not be renewed for further seasons.