Neil Patrick Harris is an American actor. Born on June 15, 1973, Harris came to fame for playing the teenage title character on Doogie Howser, M.D. The successful show ran from 1989 to 1993. Harris made a comeback as Barney Stinson on How I Met Your Mother. The critically acclaimed series ran from 2005 to 2014.

The American actor is also known for his title role in Hedwig and the Angry Inch on Broadway. He won the 2014 Tony Award for Best Leading Actor in a Musical for the portrayal. He also hosted the Tony Awards in 2009, 2011, 2012, and 2013.

In 2015, Harris became the first openly gay man to host the Academy Awards. Harris confirmed he was gay on November 4, 2006. The actor shared, I am happy to dispel any rumors or misconceptions and am quite proud to say that I am a very content gay man living my life to the fullest and feel most fortunate to be working with wonderful people in the business I love.