Additional subplots highlight Black Lives Matter activism via civil rights character Derek, immigrant deportation tied to DACA denial for Angel, foster care abuse, sexual assault trauma, and addiction narratives framed around systemic vulnerabilities. Casting prioritizes diversity with biracial leads, Black and queer actors in key roles, aligning with creator Lee Daniels' emphasis on intersectional inclusion and representation milestones like broadcast TV's first trans series regular. These elements significantly shape character development and emotional subplots, influencing reception as praised for queer/trans visibility, but they remain secondary to the central music industry drama of girl group Take 3's fame struggles, without overt lectures or foundational identity politics driving the premise.