Non-binary representation is foregrounded with the casting of a non-binary actor as Desire. These changes, alongside the source material's existing LGBTQ+ elements like trans characters and queer relationships, drew substantial audience backlash labeling the adaptation 'woke' and prioritizing identity politics over fidelity.

Creator Neil Gaiman actively defended the choices as inclusive and inherent to the work, amplifying the focus on modern social justice framing in reception. While the core fantasy premise about dreams and the Endless does not collapse without these elements, the casting and representation function as central points of controversy and thematic emphasis rather than incidental or organic additions, elevating the score into the significant range.