Neil Patrick Harris Returning As Emmy Host

Neil Patrik Harris has landed his second hosting gig for the year.

The How I Met Your Mother star will be hosting the 65th Primetime Emmy Awards on CBS, marking his return to the awards broadcast after a four-year hiatus.

Harris made his Emmy debut in 2009. That same year, he also hosted the Tony Awards, then again in 2011 and 2012, and will be making his return to that telecast on Sunday, June 9.

“I couldn’t be more honored and excited to be hosting this year’s Emmy Awards,” Harris said. “And what perfect timing — I’ll just do the exact same script I’m about to use for the Tonys. ‘And the Emmy for Best Revival of a Musical goes to Breaking Bad!’ See, told you it works.”

Harris won Emmy awards for two of his Tony Awards hosting gigs. He also delivered a ratings boost for the 2009 Emmys. Add to that his seven-year run on How I Met Your Mother as the womanizing Barney Stinson — a role which has earned him several nominations and awards — and it’s easy to see why CBS keeps bringing him back as a host.

“Neil is the quintessential host – engaging, entertaining and a true showman – with a passion for celebrating the medium we all love,” CBS Entertainment president Nina Tassler said.

“Four years ago, Neil was an amazing Emmy host and we are excited to have him back,” TV Academy chairman and CEO Bruce Rosenblum added.

The 65th Primetime Emmy Awards will air on CBS on Sunday, September 22. According to Deadline, the following day will likely be the premiere of the eighth and final season of How I Met Your Mother, which was put front and center at CBS’s upfront presentation two weeks ago.

Are you excited to see Neil Patrick Harris host the Emmy Awards?

[Photo credit: Helga Esteb / Shutterstock.com]