Neil Patrick Harris Praises Darren Criss as ‘Perpetually Talented’

Neil Patrick Harris has expressed his admiration for Darren Criss' incredible acting skills, referring to him as "part robot." During an interview with Us Weekly, Harris spoke at the pre-opening night of Maybe Happy Ending in New York City.

Harris noted, "He’s always talented. It’s impossible to see an off night." He highlighted that Criss, like his character in the production, seems to operate at an exceptional level. "He’s part robot himself, so this will be interesting to see," Harris added while at the Belasco Theatre.

The careers of Harris and Criss have run parallel for years. Harris played Hedwig in Hedwig and the Angry Inch, earning a Tony Award in 2014 for Best Performance by a Leading Actor in a Musical. He passed the lead role to Criss in 2015.

Both actors have appeared on Glee, though not simultaneously. Harris guest-starred in season 1, whereas Criss entered as the beloved character Blaine Anderson, a member of the Dalton Academy Warblers, in the second season and remained for five seasons.

Harris’ husband, David Burtka, also attended the opening night to support Criss. Burtka, a fellow University of Michigan graduate, expressed his excitement for Criss. He remarked, "I’m supporting him that way," to which Harris humorously added, "Go Blue!"

Burtka is returning to cabaret after a 12-year break, performing in Burtka, David, which premieres on November 20 at 54 Below. Harris is directing the show while starring in the off-Broadway production of S—. Meet. Fan. at the MCC Theatre.

Reflecting on his journey toward sobriety, Burtka noted the personal aspects of his cabaret show. "It deals with things I wasn’t brave enough to talk about years ago," he revealed. This introspective yet humorous production, which features their twins Harper and Gideon, aims to entertain and connect at a deeper level.

Harris shared insights about directing his husband and their twins. "There’s no bigger proponent of David than me," he affirmed. Acknowledging Burtka’s dedication to their family, he emphasized that he fully supports any artistic opportunities his husband pursues.

Darren Criss has made significant achievements in his career. He won an Emmy and a Golden Globe for his performance in Ryan Murphy’s The Assassination of Gianni Versace: American Crime Story. His theater credits also include How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying, American Buffalo, and Little Shop of Horrors.

Currently, Criss stars in Maybe Happy Ending, an original South Korean musical comedy featuring music by Will Aronson and lyrics by Hue Park.