Progressive influence appears primarily through casting choices that introduce racial diversity into a historically white source material and period setting. Most notably, the established character Black Cat (Felicia Hardy) is race-swapped to an Asian actress (Li Jun Li as Cat Hardy), drawing pre-release criticism and accusations of 'woke slop.' Other supporting roles feature Black actors in positions like journalist Robbie Robertson (Lamorne Morris) and Tombstone (Abraham Popoola), alongside a Hispanic secretary (Karen Rodriguez).

These decisions stand out against the 1930s New York backdrop but do not drive the narrative, alter core conflicts, or introduce identity politics, systemic oppression critiques, gender ideology, or activist framing. The plot remains focused on classic noir tropes—femme fatales, gangland intrigue, personal redemption, and super-powered threats—without lectures or reoriented premises.

Some audience pushback labels the casting changes as forced, but reviews and plot details confirm the ideology stays incidental rather than central. No evidence of creator intent emphasizing social justice messaging; the show largely strips away any such elements from the original comics in favor of aesthetic and character drama.