Neil Patrick Harris ‘Glad’ Emmys Are Over, Looking Forward To Break From Hosting

Neil Patrick Harris said he had a good time hosting the Emmy Awards Sunday night, but that he was looking forward to taking a break from hosting.

“Emceeing the Emmys was fun, but I’m sure glad it’s over,” Harris wrote on Twitter Monday. “Looking forward to not hosting anything for a long time.”

The How I Met Your Mother star hosted the 67th Tony Awards in June. He also hosted in 2009, 2011, and 2012, winning three Emmy Awards for Outstanding Special Class Program. He also hosted the Emmys in 2009.

Even though critics said Harris’ second turn at hosting the Emmys fell short of his previous effort, the telecast drew the largest audience in eight years. Harris thanked everyone who watched for the viewership boost.

“Nice! This year’s Emmys had the largest audience since 2005,” Harris tweeted. “That makes my bosses very happy. Thanks so much for watching!”

Jimmy Kimmel, who joined Harris on-stage during his opening monologue, told the 40-year-old to enjoy the experience.

“Can I just give you a smidge of advice,” he said. “Just look around and take it all in, enjoy every second of this, because there’s a really good chance they won’t ask you back next year. Just something to think about.”

Prior to the awards telecast, CBS Entertainment president Nina Tassler said of Harris’ stint, “Neil is the quintessential host – engaging, entertaining and a true showman – with a passion for celebrating the medium we all love.”

TV Academy chairman and CEO Bruce Rosenblum was also happy to welcome Harris back to the Emmys.

“Four years ago, Neil was an amazing Emmy host and we are excited to have him back,” he said.

Neil Patrick Harris recently signed on for the film adaptation of Gillian Flynn’s 2012 novel Gone Girl. He will play Desi Collings, the ex-boyfriend of Amy Dunne (Rosamund Pike).
[Photo credit: Helga Esteb / Shutterstock.com]