Casting includes diverse actors like Amy-Leigh Hickman (of Pakistani descent) as Nadia and Tati Gabrielle (Black) as Marienne, alongside queer representation in characters like Adam Pratt, whose bisexuality plays a subplot role but remains incidental to the whodunit plot. Themes explore class privilege among the 'eat the rich' elite circle and subtle nods to white male entitlement, but these serve the narrative's critique of wealth and moral corruption without devolving into lectures or systemic activism.

No evidence of race- or gender-swapping from source material, forced DEI mandates, or creator statements emphasizing social justice agendas; showrunner Sera Gamble and star Penn Badgley discuss character psychology and twists, not inclusion goals. Audience reception criticizes the season's implausible plot, weak dialogue, and gimmicky alter-ego twist rather than wokeness, with isolated trailer reviews questioning a 'woke' shift but no widespread backlash. The show prioritizes entertainment and suspense, delivering a traditional guilty-pleasure thriller unmarred by heavy-handed messaging.