Big Shot

The casting relies on modern diversity quotas, putting diverse actresses into highly competent roles. A major player, Carolyn "Mouse" Smith, is explicitly queer and has a prominent romantic arc with another female student. Because of this visible LGBTQ+ representation, the casting score is elevated.

The characters frequently use modern social-justice terms and lecture the coach on fat-shaming, gender dynamics, and outdated coaching styles. The dialogue also features direct conversations about coming out and acceptance of queer relationships.

The main story focuses on tearing down the coach's "toxic masculinity" so he can learn to be a gentler man from teen girls and women. It also features a major, positive subplot about Carolyn discovering her gay identity, singing a love song to a girl, kissing her, and coming out. These prominent girl-power and LGBTQ+ elements drive the score higher.

Traditional male coaching styles, competitive aggression, and old-school discipline are framed as outdated, harmful, and toxic. Traditional authority figures are shown as needing to adapt to modern, softer, and more progressive sensibilities.

The show faced complaints from conservative viewers who objected to the lesbian teen relationship on a family-oriented Disney platform. Some fans also complained that the second season felt like political propaganda rather than a sports drama.

The main creators have a mild political track record, but the wider writing and directing team features strong progressive voices. Producer John Stamos has also used his platform to advocate for LGBTQ+ causes.