Hazbin Hotel, the critically acclaimed television series, has its roots in the early sketches of creator Vivienne Medrano’s middle school notebook. Medrano’s love for deer inspired the character Alastor, the first character designed for the series. A24 took a chance on the show, resulting in critically acclaimed episodes and chart-topping success.
The earliest character to be created for Hazbin Hotel was the Radio Demon, Alastor, who Medrano had since middle school. He started as a deer, but evolved into a shapeshifter and finally a demon. This transformation is fitting, as Medrano always adored deer, particularly after watching the movie Bambi.
Medrano’s passion for Hazbin Hotel resulted in a two-year labor of love to create the pilot. The pilot took about two and a half years to make, during which time Medrano developed the overall story of the series. She explained, “I know the twists, I know the middle, and I know the end, and I know, obviously, the beginning now.”
A Still From Hazbin Hotel (Via IMDB)
Season 1 of Hazbin Hotel grew from these humble beginnings. Medrano shared that the first episode was the reintroduction of Adam and this season’s arc, as well as the side plot of Vaggie making the commercial. Another episode, “Masquerade,” was also a key part of the season.
A24 played a crucial role in the creation of Hazbin Hotel, offering Medrano creative control and ownership. Medrano praised A24, stating, “They came in with this amazing deal right off the bat that was putting me so much in control, and ownership.”
The gambit paid off as Hazbin Hotel has been a smash hit with both critics and topping Billboard charts. The show’s unique blend of animation and storytelling has captured audiences, making it a must-watch series.
