Casting features some diversity, such as Latinx actor Edgar Ramírez portraying the Italian Macchiarini and black actress Ashley Madekwe as a fictionalized whistleblower doctor, but these are incidental choices for a modern production adapting real events with composite characters, lacking any narrative emphasis on race, gender, or identity. There are no race or gender swaps of established fictional icons, no LGBTQ+ representation as a plot point, no dialogue on systemic oppression, toxic masculinity, or social justice, and no creator statements promoting activist intent. Audience reception and reviews highlight the gripping horror of the true story, with zero notable backlash over 'wokeness' or DEI, allowing the series to deliver pure entertainment through traditional storytelling unmarred by contemporary political messaging.