Episode 3 of Hazbin Hotel, “Behind Closed Doors”, finds Charlie Morningstar elated with the news from Heaven. Quick to prove the hotel has redeeming powers, she invites Voxtek for a personal interview, unaware of the media overlord’s true intentions.

After learning Pentious is living redeemed in Heaven, Charlie wants to spread the good news. It’s the proof she’s been waiting for to promise that the hotel can indeed redeem the most vile guest. However, Vaggie is quick to warn Charlie not to get ahead of herself. She questions Charlie on the exact message, including the information she forgot to focus on: Heaven possibly closing the realm to outsiders.

Instead of heeding Vaggie’s advice, Charlie wants to get this news to the people of Pentagram City. And the best way to do so is by reaching out to Vox, the media overlord of Voxtek. The invite is the perfect setup for Vox’s plan to frame the hotel as forced conversion therapy, with Charlie as the dictator in charge. Ignoring the signs, Charlie welcomes Vox and Velvet for a personal interview about their case of redemption.

Meanwhile, Cherri Bomb and Pentious share a duet, pining over the love-hate relationship they shared in Hell. The lyrics, as comical as they may be, display the earnest feelings they had for one another. It’s quite similar to Morticia and Gomez Addams’ dark love, or even the weird bond between Tom the Cat and Jerry the Mouse.

Back at the hotel, Vox grows bored with Charlie’s lack of proof of redemption. That is, until she promises a live redeeming with Angel Dust as their subject. Unfortunately, the elaborate plan goes awry, perfect for Vox and Velvet’s misinformation report. The exploitation leaves Angel hurt, and Charlie woefully apologetic.

Episode 3 is the strongest thus far, showing off its signature crude comedy and heartfelt drama. Standout performances in this entry belong to Keith David and Blake Roman as Husk and Angel. The predicament reveals the father-son relationship between Husk and Angel, even through a bitter argument between the two. Overall, a great episode that continues the main narrative while exploring more about these colorful characters.

Rating: 9/10