Gentleman Jack

The core story is entirely identity-driven. It focuses on Anne Lister's search for a female partner and her determination to live as a married lesbian in the 1830s. The narrative revolves around her coded diaries, her romantic relationships with women, and her efforts to resist traditional heteronormative expectations. Because the entire plot and character arcs are built directly around queer identity and challenging gender roles, it receives an elevated score under the queer-centric rules.

The series presents a strong critique of traditional Western institutions of the 1830s, particularly traditional marriage, the church, and patriarchal social norms. Traditional marriage is depicted as a trap that strips women of their wealth and freedom. Anne and Ann Walker subvert church rituals by taking communion together to seal their private union. The show consistently frames traditional family structures and male-dominated local business networks as corrupt and hostile to female independence.

Some conservative viewers criticized the show online as too woke, arguing that it focuses too heavily on modern gender and identity politics. However, because the show is based directly on Anne Lister's real-life journals, the backlash was fairly muted. Critics had to acknowledge that her lesbian relationships are a matter of historical fact rather than fictional additions.

Creator Sally Wainwright is known for writing women-led stories that challenge traditional norms. Directors such as Amanda Brotchie and Fergus O'Brien also have a history of directing female-fronted and LGBTQ+-focused projects. Casting director Andy Pryor is a known advocate for inclusive casting practices. Together, the creative team has a moderate-to-strong track record of producing works with progressive themes.