Haunted Hotel is an American adult animated supernatural comedy series created by Matt Roller, known for his work on Rick and Morty. The series premiered on Netflix on September 19, 2025, and quickly became one of the most talked-about animated releases of the year. Rather than following the style of traditional family cartoons, Haunted Hotel blends dark humor, supernatural situations, and sitcom-style character dynamics, making it a unique entry in Netflix’s adult animation lineup.
Unlike typical horror stories, Haunted Hotel infuses its haunted setting with comedic twists and relatable family drama, providing a fresh perspective on the ghostly genre. The series stands out for its combination of spooky elements and humor, appealing to fans of both comedy and supernatural storytelling.
Plot and Characters
The story centers on Katherine Freeling, a single mother who inherits the Undervale Hotel, a once-struggling establishment in Upstate New York. What Katherine soon discovers is that the hotel is not just old — it’s haunted by spirits and strange supernatural occurrences. With her two children, Ben and Esther, by her side, Katherine struggles to manage day-to-day operations, all while navigating encounters with restless ghosts, unusual guests, and odd phenomena that make the hotel as unpredictable as it is eerie.
One of the show’s key dynamics comes from Katherine’s relationship with her deceased brother Nathan, who now exists as a friendly — if somewhat irresponsible — ghost and offers his energy (and chaos) to help manage the hotel. Other characters include a cast of peculiar entities and recurring visitors, each adding their own flavor of humor and unpredictability to the narrative.
Creative Team and Production
Haunted Hotel was developed by Netflix Animation Studios in collaboration with several production partners including Magic Giraffe and Titmouse, Inc. The series benefits from the creative influence of seasoned professionals such as Matt Roller (creator and executive producer), Dan Harmon (executive producer), and a supporting team of experienced writers and producers.
The voice cast brings the characters to life with a blend of comedic timing and expressive performances. Notable voices include Will Forte, Eliza Coupe, Skyler Gisondo, Natalie Palamides, and Jimmi Simpson, each contributing depth and personality to their roles. This strong ensemble elevates the show’s humor and emotional moments, helping balance the spooky setting with genuine character work.
Reception and Cultural Impact
Since its release, Haunted Hotel has received a mix of critical responses, with many reviewers appreciating its unique combination of horror-comedy and family drama. On Rotten Tomatoes, the first season holds a positive score, reflecting a general audience appreciation for the show’s clever tone and engaging characters. While some critics found it more average compared to other animated comedies, many viewers have embraced the series for its originality and charm.
User reviews online often highlight the show’s balance between humor and heartfelt moments, noting that the supernatural setting sets the stage for both laughs and emotional storytelling. The renewal of the series for a second season also signals Netflix’s confidence in the show’s future and its growing fan base.
Why You Should Watch Haunted Hotel
If you enjoy adult animated series that combine sharp wit, spooky themes, and character-driven humor, Haunted Hotel offers a compelling experience. Its supernatural backdrop gives plenty of room for creative storytelling, while the family at the heart of the series grounds the show in relatable emotional moments. Whether you’re drawn to quirky ghost stories, offbeat comedy, or animated shows with heart, Haunted Hotel delivers something special that stands out among contemporary animated programming.
For fans who love to embrace the spooky, weird, and wonderful, Haunted Hotel remains a must-watch series, and you can also check out merchandise and inspired products at hauntedhotel.store
