The Buffy The Vampire Slayer Stars Who Appeared In How I Met Your Mother

Buffy the Vampire Slayer and How I Met Your Mother are two beloved television series that have captivated audiences with their unique storytelling and memorable characters. Fans of both shows have been delighted to discover a surprising connection between these two iconic series: the crossover of actors. 

Throughout the nine seasons of How I Met Your Mother, several familiar faces from Buffy the Vampire Slayer made appearances, creating a delightful blend of nostalgia and excitement for fans of both shows. Here we will explore the Buffy stars who ventured into the world of How I Met Your Mother, reminiscing about their characters, the episodes they appeared in, and the magic they brought to the screen. 

Join us as we delve into this fascinating crossover and celebrate the talented actors who bridged the gap between these two beloved TV universes.

Alyson Hannigan

Alyson Hannigan portrayed the iconic character of Willow Rosenberg in Buffy the Vampire Slayer. As one of the core members of the Scooby Gang, Willow started as a shy and nerdy high school student with a talent for computer hacking but later evolved into a powerful witch.

Alyson Hannigan played the character of Lily Aldrin in How I Met Your Mother. Lily is one of the main characters and is Ted's best friend, Marshall's wife, and a close friend of Robin and Barney. She is known for her quirky personality, artistic pursuits, and her heart-breaking short break up with Marshall.

In real life, Alyson Hannigan is married to Alexis Denisof.

Alexis Denisof

Alexis Denisof played the role of Wesley Wyndam-Pryce in Buffy the Vampire Slayer. Wesley initially appeared as a bumbling, by-the-book watcher but underwent significant character development throughout the series, eventually becoming a skilled and complex ally on the spin off series Angel alongside David Boreanaz and Charisma Carpenter.

Alexis Denisof appeared as Sandy Rivers in How I Met Your Mother. Sandy Rivers is a news anchor and reporter who works alongside Robin at Metro News 1. He is depicted as arrogant, unprofessional, and often inappropriate, adding a touch of humour and tension to the newsroom scenes.

In real life, Alexis Denisof is married to Alyson Hannigan.

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Seth Green

Seth Green portrayed the character of Daniel "Oz" Osbourne, who was a guitarist and a werewolf. Oz was known for his calm and collected demeanour, providing a unique dynamic to the group of friends as Willow's (Alyson Hannigan) first and only male love interest.

Seth Green played the role of Daryl LaCorte in How I Met Your Mother. Daryl is an old college friend of Marshall and Ted, and he reminisces about their past experiences. He is portrayed as eccentric and spontaneous, providing comedic moments throughout the show. In 1996, Daryl's fascination with Marshall and Lily grew after engaging in a lively game of hacky sack together.

Fast forward to 2012, when Marshall and Lily unexpectedly cross paths with Daryl once again. It turns out that Daryl now resides near the Wesleyan campus and runs a hacky sack stand called "The Three Hackmigos," named after himself, Marshall, and Lily. Curiosity piqued, Daryl extends an invitation for Marshall and Lily to visit his house, leaving them both apprehensive about his intentions. As they nervously await his return, fearing the worst, Marshall and Lily inadvertently blurt out their concerns that Daryl might be planning something sinister. However, their fears quickly dissipate as Daryl returns with his hands behind his back, revealing that his true intention was to present them with a generous check of one hundred thousand dollars as a token of gratitude for their collaborative idea of "The Three Hackmigos."

Amy Acker

Buffy fans may recognise Amy Acker for her role in the Buffy The Vampire Slayer Spin Off Angel as Fred Burkle (Winifred), a Southern Scientist who was caught in the dimension of Pylea and brought home by Angel Investigations. She lives with them in the Hyperion Hotel and later dates Gunn and Wesley.

In How I Met Your Mother, Amy Acker plays PhD student Penelope who studies Native American Culture and taught Ted to rain dance in the episode "Come On" in order to stop Robin leaving on a camping trip with Sandy Rivers, played by another Angel Alum Alexis Denisof.

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Harry Groener

Harry Groener played the memorable character of Mayor Richard Wilkins III in Buffy the Vampire Slayer. The Mayor was a charming and seemingly affable figure, but beneath his pleasant exterior lurked a dark and sinister nature as the main antagonist of the third season where he gained second-slayer Faith as his ally. Richard Wilkins attempted to ascend human form to a true demon a the Sunnydale High School graduation. He turned into a large snake and the Scooby Gang burned down the school to stop him.

Harry Groener portrayed the character of Clint in How I Met Your Mother. Clint is is Virginia Mosby's second husband and Ted's step father. Ted struggles to come to grips with the reality of his mother's impending second marriage, especially when he hasn't even experienced one himself. The situation reaches its peak when Clint, the groom-to-be, performs an incredibly explicit and cringe-worthy song. Overwhelmed by the awkwardness, Ted abruptly departs without delivering his intended toast. Ted seizes the opportunity to go back and see his Mother and Clint and finally delivers the long-awaited toast that he had prepared earlier.

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Tom Lenk

Tom Lenk portrayed Andrew Wells (Tucker's Brother) in Buffy the Vampire Slayer. Andrew was a member of the Trio, a group of geeky villains planning to over through Buffy and the Scoobies. After killing his pal Jonathan and getting stuck as Buffy's hostage, he later became a reluctant ally to the Scooby Gang and crossed over into the spin off series Angel. His comedic and quirky personality brought light-hearted moments to the show in the seventh season.

In the How I Met Your Mother episode "Swarley," Tom Lenk portrays the character Barista Scott, who works alongside Chloe at the coffee shop. During their visit to the café, Ted notices that Chloe has drawn a heart next to Marshall's name on his cup. Convinced that Chloe has a crush on Marshall, Ted points out how she always laughs at his corny joke about fitting a pumpkin into a pumpkin-flavored latte. Marshall decides to approach Chloe, and she ends up giving him her phone number on a coffee cup.

Morena Baccarin, who portrays Chloe, is also known for her work on Firefly/Serenity, which was created by Joss Whedon, the same creative mind behind Buffy. 

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Danny Strong

Danny Strong played the role of Jonathan Levinson in Buffy the Vampire Slayer. Jonathan was initially portrayed as a bullied and insecure student, but he later became entangled in various schemes and conflicts, showcasing a complex character arc throughout the series. Jonathan memorably bought a gun into school in the early seasons and later changed the world in the episode Superstar to make him the centre of attention before Buffy figured out his plan.

Danny Strong plays Trey Platt who presides over Marvin Eriksen's funeral ceremony in the episode of How I Met Your Mother. In "Last Words," the entire group accompanies Marshall as he travels to St. Cloud, Minnesota to bid farewell to his late father. During their visit, the gang overhears Judy expressing her gratitude to the minister for agreeing to lead the funeral services. However, the minister explains that he won't be able to attend the ceremony and entrusts the task to his reverend son, Trey.

As the revelation unfolds, Marshall reveals to his friends that Trey was his childhood tormentor, the toughest bully from their school days who had once terrorized him. 

Kal Penn 

In Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Kal Penn portrayed the character of Hunt in the Season 4 episode "Beer Bad." Hunt was a student at UC Sunnydale and was part of a group of friends that included Colm, Kip, and Roy. Known for their fondness for drinking Black Frost beer at the local pub, Hunt and his friends found themselves unwittingly caught in the middle of a supernatural mishap. 

The bartender served them beer that had been tainted by a spell, causing them to transform into primal beings. Alongside Buffy, Hunt and his friends experienced a temporary loss of their human faculties as they succumbed to their primal instincts. Fortunately, the effects of the spell wore off within a day or two, restoring them to their normal selves. 

In How I Met Your Mother, Kal Pen played Kevin. Originally Robin's court mandated therapist, the pair started dating and had a serious relationship. He has a very relaxed and easy-going later stopping being Robin's therapist because he was attracted to her.

On Valentine's Day, Lily and Marshall plan a romantic weekend getaway in Vermont with Robin and Kevin. During the trip, Kevin takes the opportunity to propose to Robin, hoping to take their relationship to the next level. However, Robin, taken aback by the proposal, needs time to consider her response. The following evening, Robin opens up to Kevin about her inability to conceive children, which prompts him to propose once again, expressing his commitment to building a life together regardless. Robin, after thoughtful contemplation, accepts his proposal.

Later, back at their apartment, Kevin reassures Robin that there are alternative paths to parenthood, emphasizing that they can explore other options. However, Robin reveals her genuine desire to remain childless and questions whether Kevin can truly find fulfillment without having children of his own. Realizing the profound importance of starting a family for himself, Kevin withdraws his proposal, recognizing that their differing desires regarding children would prevent their long-term happiness. As a result, they ultimately decide to end their relationship, acknowledging that their future paths no longer align.

Rachel Bilson

In Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Rachel Bilson took on the role of Colleen in the Season 7 episode "Dirty Girls." Colleen was a potential Slayer discovered by Buffy and her allies. With her induction into the world of supernatural battles, Colleen fearlessly joined forces with the Scooby Gang, showcasing her bravery and determination in the fight against evil. Notably, Colleen became a part of Xander's dream, where she and Caridad sought him out in bed. It can be presumed that Colleen survived and became one of the many Slayers activated by Willow during the climactic battle at the Hellmouth. It's worth mentioning that Colleen's name holds a special significance, as she was named after a member of Drew Goddard's family.

In the TV show How I Met Your Mother, Rachel Bilson takes on the role of Cindy. Cindy is a PhD student who gained entry to college through a scholarship and happens to be living with Ted's future wife, Tracy. Cindy holds some resentment towards Tracy, believing that Tracy has taken away all her previous boyfriends. She makes her first appearance in the episode "Girls Versus Suits" in Season 5, where she and Ted begin dating. However, their relationship comes to an end as Cindy feels conflicted about dating Ted, who is a lecturer while she is a student.

Cindy makes a subsequent appearance in the episode "Big Days," where Ted encounters her at MacLaren's bar and is apprehensive that she might still harbour ill feelings towards him. Prior to her arrival, Ted notices a girl sitting at the bar whom he is interested in approaching but feels hesitant. When he sees Cindy talking to the girl, he assumes that the girl is Cindy's roommate (the mother) and recalls how the belongings in Cindy's room hinted at her being the perfect match. Ted contemplates making a move on Cindy's friend, but his plans are interrupted when Cindy kisses her. Future Ted narrates that the girl he mistook for their mother turned out to be someone else's mother, alongside Cindy.

Ian Abercrombie

Ian Abercrombie portrayed the character of the enigmatic Old Man in Buffy the Vampire Slayer. In the episode involving SlayerFest '98, the Old Man directed the twins Hans and Frederick Gruenshtahler from the confines of his mansion. Employing advanced technology, he communicated with the twins through earpieces while operating a computer system to track down their assigned targets, Buffy Summers and Cordelia Chase. However, Buffy soon uncovered the tracking devices hidden within their corsages and cleverly turned the tables on the Old Man's game. Manipulating the situation, she orchestrated a scenario where the twins ultimately turned on each other, while creating the illusion that both Slayers had been defeated. With the demise of the twins, as well as other participants in the deadly contest, the Old Man believed he had emerged victorious. 

Following his intimate encounter with Robin, Barney approaches Marshall for assistance in discovering a potential loophole within the sacred Bro Code. This code holds immense significance in Barney's life as the ultimate guide for bros. Supposedly penned by Barnabus Stinson during the 18th century, a time when luminaries like Benjamin Franklin and George Washington were presumably preoccupied, the Bro Code stands as a meticulously crafted document that Ted has faithfully adhered to while Marshall's attempts to uncover a loophole prove unsuccessful. In a brief appearance, Ian Abercrombie portrays Benjamin Franklin in How I Met Your Mother.

Nancy Lenehan

Nancy Lenehan Pat was Joyce Summers' overly-peppy, friendly confidante during the time Buffy had run away to Los Angeles. The two met in a book club which read "Deep End of the Ocean" during Buffy's absence. She was killed when zombies raised by the demon Ovu Mobani attacked the Summers' home.

Nancy Travis portrayed Cheryl in Season 6's Legendaddy but was replaced by Nancy Lenehan for Season 9's Mom and Dad. Cheryl Whittaker is Jerome Whittaker's wife and J.J. and Carly Whittaker's mother. Jerome, played by John Lithgow, is Barney Stinson's biological Father.

Caroline Lagerfelt

Caroline Largerfelt played Anne Pratt who was the mother of William Pratt, who would become the vampire known as "William the Bloody" and "Spike." Anne was the first vampire he sired and later killed because she was actually in love with him. Spike's relationship with his Mother is a pivotal device used in the seventh season of Buffy The Vampire Slayer as the First Evil uses it to control him and make him kill others despite his soul. 

Caroline Lagerfelt plays the Bridal Shop Lady in the How I Met Your Mother episode Cupcake where Lily, Robin, and Victoria are shopping for wedding dresses for Lily.

Pat Crawford Brown

Pat Crawford Brown played the memorable Wig Lady in Buffy The Vampire Slayer. Wig Lady was the nickname given by the employees of Doublemeat Palace to a worm-like demon that masqueraded as an old lady. She was a regular at the Doublemeat Palace. Unfortunately, she was not there for the Doublemeat Medley. This demon had a taste for the palace employees. She was later killed by Willow when she saw the worm part of her (which revealed itself by exiting the top of her scalp) and a paralysed Buffy (intending to eat her). She cut the worm off, killing the Wig Lady, then shoved the still-wriggling worm into the meat grinder.

In How I Met Your Mother, Pat Crawford Brown plays Thelma in the episode Three Days of Snow where Ted and Barney take over MacLaren's and Marshall and Robin pick Lily up from the airport.

Phill Lewis

Phill Lewis portrayed Stephen Platt, the guidance counselor at Sunnydale High School in 1998, in Buffy The Vampire Slayer. Platt was a notable presence known for his calm and caring demeanor, although he often approached his job with a touch of cynicism. His counselling methods were creative, such as suggesting the use of a dream journal to one of his students, Debbie.
Buffy's encounter with Platt proved to be significant, as she found comfort and rapport with him during a challenging time in her life. After her expulsion and subsequent return to Sunnydale High following false accusations of murder, Buffy sought solace in their conversations. She even opened up about her complex relationship with Angel, delving into her conflicting emotions surrounding his transformation and the supernatural aspects of their connection. 

Tragically, Platt met an untimely demise at the hands of Debbie's boyfriend, Pete. Pete had recently gained superhuman strength and an uncontrollable temper due to a serum he had created. When Debbie innocently remarked that she found Platt humorous, it triggered Pete's violent reaction, leading to the counsellor's unfortunate demise.

In How I Met Your Mother and the episode "Dowisetrepla", Phill Lewis plays the loan officer when Marshall and Lily are looking for a new apartment. 

Adam Paul

Adam Paul took on the role of the Unidentified Vampire in the Buffy the Vampire Slayer episode "As You Were" (Season 6, Episode 15). In this memorable encounter, Buffy crossed paths with the vampire while passing through Restfield Cemetery on her way home from work. Eager to feast on some fresh blood, the vampire approached Buffy, but something unexpected caught his attention—a peculiar smell.

Buffy had been working at Doublemeat Palace, the fast-food restaurant known for its mysterious meat patties. Finding the scent off-putting and unappetizing, the vampire abandoned his plans to sink his fangs into Buffy's neck and decided to retreat instead. Buffy remarked on his odour, comparing him to the unmistakable scent of death before throwing a stake at him.

In How I Met Your Mother, Adam Paul plays Mitch, the manager of a California Pizza Kitchen. He is the memorable Naked Man who dated Robin in episode also called "The Naked Man". The "Naked Man" is a move Mitch invented for use on a date with no chance of a follow-up. You make an excuse to go into the date's apartment, wait until they leave the room and take off your clothes. Two times out of three it works and the date sleeps with you. 

JP Manoux

In the Buffy The Vampire Slayer spin off, Angel, JP Manoux stars as Frank Gilinitz, the bell hop in the 1950s Hyperion Hotel. He delivers a bill to room 207 but does not want to due to the occupant being a creep and making him uneasy. It is revealed that the occupant is Angel. The episode is named "Are You Now or Have You Ever Been" and is in Season 2.

In the How I Met Your Mother episode, The Limo, the gang spot a man they mistake for musician Moby. Not Moby is played by JP Manoux. Seizing the opportunity, Ted kindly offers Moby a ride, and to everyone's surprise, Moby accepts the offer. Inside the limo, the group is thrilled to have Moby in their company, and much to their delight, he extends an invitation to his own party. 

En route to Moby's supposed party, Moby expresses admiration for Barney's energizing Get Psyched Mix however, their excitement is short-lived as they soon discover that the man they picked up is not actually Moby. The situation takes a sudden and alarming turn when the impostor reveals a firearm.

Eric Bruskotter

In The Buffy The Vampire Slayer Spin Off, Angel, Eric Bruskotter plays Brian in the episode Provider (Season 3). Brian was a Zombie who was poisoned by his girlfriend Alison for intense jealousy but came back to be with her. Wesley and Gunn were hired to rid her of him but she ended up deciding to give the relationship another chance.

In How I Met Your Mother, Eric Bruskotter plays George in the episode Little Minnesota where Ted's sister Heather is moving to New York and Ted is keeping her away from Barney. Marshall takes Robin to a Minnesota themed bar where he goes when he is down but she fits in too well and makes the place less special for him.

The crossover of Buffy the Vampire Slayer stars into the world of How I Met Your Mother added an extra layer of excitement and nostalgia for fans of both shows. Seeing familiar faces from one beloved series appear in another created a sense of connection and joy, reminding us of the enduring impact these actors and their characters have had on our television experiences. From Alyson Hannigan's lovable Lily to Seth Green's hilarious Daryl, each Buffy alum brought their unique charm and talent to the world of How I Met Your Mother, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of fans. 

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