Supporting cast includes diverse original characters like black actors Eric Graise (Bobby, tech expert) and Fiona Rene (Reenie, lawyer), and trans actress Abby McEnany as Velma, who is in a light-hearted lesbian relationship with Teddy (Robin Weigert); this representation is noticeable but incidental, providing comic relief and case support rather than driving arcs or conflicts tied to identity politics. No race/gender swaps of established book characters (Colter matches source material), no creator-stated activism, no prominent backlash or 'go woke go broke' narrative, and the show is praised in conservative outlets for wholesome storytelling. Minor diversity feels organic to modern network TV casting without compromising the premise or appeal, allowing pure entertainment focused on adventure and heroism.