Can't believe I never got into this show before! I spent half of last term watching HIMYM, and loved all of it! Great show.
And I've just watched Barney's episode. Frankly I very much like the serious stuff - both this and Marshall's dad were sudden things adding a very good bit of drama and while I do agree that the show needs mostly comedy; I am a big fan of dark stuff. Sure I get that if I want secrets and deaths then I can watch Spooks all night long, but as has been said, a simply comedy show can become boring. Break it up by a little seriousness and all is well even so.
Not looking forward to an episode with Katy Perry in it, as hot as she is. Celebs not famous for acting should stay away from fictional shows.