Key examples include softening Sokka's sexist arc in Season 1—deemed 'iffy' by cast and showrunner Albert Kim—to accelerate his growth into a feminist ally, a change explicitly tied to 'gender issues that didn't age well,' which undermines his organic character development and injects contemporary ideology. Similar tweaks affected Katara, emphasizing empowerment over fidelity. For Season 2, Toph Beifong is aged up and portrayed as more feminine by Miya Cech, diverging from her tough, tomboyish blind earthbender persona, sparking backlash for prioritizing appeal over authenticity.

Promotional images of Aang have drawn controversy for design choices that fans attribute to DEI checklists rather than source homage. Casting remains predominantly Asian and Indigenous actors aligning with cultural inspirations (e.g., Kiawentiio as Katara, Dallas Liu as Zuko), but a related project's casting director admitted DEI policies drove decisions, and Netflix touts underrepresented hires. Original creators departed over creative differences, signaling ideological clashes. Audience reception mixes praise for visuals with criticism of 'woke' updates prioritizing inclusion over storytelling, evident in fan outcry over promo materials and S1 changes, though not yet overwhelming as core adventure persists amid the intrusions.