While the revival brings in a somewhat more diverse cast and acknowledges progressive themes, the focus remains primarily on long-standing, established characters. Forced representation is present, but not egregious by today's standards. Character arcs aren’t dramatically hijacked by identity politics, and merit and personal stories still drive the narrative.

Traditional values like family, small-town community, and nuanced intergenerational relationships are still central. There's mild commentary on gender norms and some modern takes, but the show doesn’t aggressively undermine traditional roles or portray religion or masculinity as inherently problematic.

Some of the newer material flirts with modern ideological trends, especially in its handling of career and relationship topics. Still, the town’s range of characters isn't a progressive echo chamber, and dissenting or quirky traditional perspectives get plenty of screen time without being painted as villains.