This change, implemented in season 3 to align with Elliot Page's real-life transition and carried forward with he/him pronouns and male presentation in season 4, constitutes a deliberate alteration of an established character without in-universe justification tied to the story's lore. Viktor features prominently in the cast poster and episode plots, including confrontations with Reginald Hargreeves about past traumas and family dynamics, embedding the identity element into the narrative fabric.

Showrunner Steve Blackman has publicly emphasized the series' commitment to onscreen diversity and inclusion as reflective of the real world. While the core premise remains a superhero family navigating timelines, powers, and apocalyptic threats—as seen in episodes like 'The Cleanse' and 'End of the Beginning'—the gender-swapped character adds a layer of intentional modern identity politics that influences casting and character arcs. Reception focused more on writing flaws, plot holes, and the rushed six-episode format than overt messaging, with limited specific backlash to ideological elements in this season.