Born and raised in Vancouver, B.C., Cobie Smulders never gave much thought to acting, setting her sights on becoming a doctor or a marine biologist instead. She first explored acting as a teenager, appearing in several high school productions.

During her teen years, Smulder began modeling. This led to travel to places such as Paris, Japan, Milan, Greece and Germany. Despite her hectic work schedule, she graduated high school with honors and was voted Most Respected by her peers. Smulders continued to model internationally until an opportunity arose to audition for film and television.

Smulders' natural ability impressed casting directors, and she soon guest starred on Special Unit 2 and Jeremiah. The role of Juliet in Veritas marked her first series role for television. In 2005, Smulders landed the role of Robin on How I Met Your Mother.