These changes, paired with showrunners' stated priority on a multi-ethnic cast and writers' room to reflect a 'real' diverse world, establish a baseline progressive casting signal driven by an intentional inclusion mandate rather than organic background. Prominent LGBTQ+ elements intensify this through foregrounded queer representation: Bess is openly lesbian with a sustained relationship arc involving Addy, Nick dates non-binary character Jade in season 4, and George's younger sister has a girlfriend, all integrated with positive resolutions and minimal conflict over identity. The supernatural 'sins of the past' plot device touches historical wrongs but remains secondary to the core mystery and romance arcs, keeping thematic centrality moderate overall.