Progressive elements are noticeable and integrated into character development and subplots rather than incidental. Ava's bisexuality is explicitly featured as a recurring character trait and plot driver, including an entire episode set on a lesbian cruise where she pursues a non-monogamous lesbian couple, with dialogue directly addressing her sexuality and non-binary thinking on relationships.

The season builds on broader show themes of women navigating a historically male-dominated comedy field, ageism, and reinvention, with supporting casting including diverse actors such as Carl Clemons-Hopkins in a key role and guest appearances by Ming-Na Wen and Margaret Cho. Creators have discussed the intent to explore sexism and generational shifts for women in comedy. These elements influence arcs and specific episodes without making identity politics the foundational premise or primary emotional driver, and there was limited targeted audience backlash labeling Season 2 as overly activist compared to later seasons.