(CBS) Britney Spears is returning to "How I Met Your Mother" on May 12, but this time around her ditzy character Abby is teaming up with the womanizing Barney (Neil Patrick Harris).

Production of the episode began today.

"We're all so thrilled to have Britney joining us once again. And just to head it off at the pass this time around: Yes, Mom, Britney's very nice and no, I can't get her autograph for you," said Craig Thomas, executive producer and co-creator of the show.

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Photos: Britney Spears

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In the episode, Barney and Abby realize that they have one thing in common: their mutual hatred of her unrequited love Ted (Josh Radnor). The "couple" decides to go to the bar to flaunt their new relationship in Ted's face. Desperate to get a rise out of his former pal, Barney pops a surprising question to Abby.

Spears' March 24 appearance as Abby drew 10.6 million viewers - 1 million more than the previous week - and received good reviews.

"How I Met Your Mother" airs Mondays at 8:30 ET on CBS and also stars Segel, Alyson Hannigan and Cobie Smulders.

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