Part 5/9:
What truly appears to be driving the decline is the franchise's pivot towards LGBTQ+ and transgender propaganda. Critics argue that the show is now less about compelling storytelling and character development and more about patronizing social messaging meant to promote progressive ideals.
This approach has been characterized as fan antagonism, intentionally alienating viewers who simply want good stories rather than ideological monologues. The focus on identity politics has led many fans—some who've followed the series for decades—to tune out entirely, feeling that their beloved franchise is being used as a platform for social activism rather than entertainment.