Big Sky features Jerrie Kennedy, a prominent transgender character, whose arc is depicted with dignity and complexity. Her identity is handled respectfully, and she evolves into an empowered and integral part of the narrative, contributing to a net positive portrayal of LGBTQ+ themes.

Big Sky features Jerrie Kennedy, a trans woman, as a central character. Her portrayal emphasizes resilience, agency, and complexity as she navigates trauma and becomes a vital part of a detective team. Her trans identity is acknowledged respectfully and integrated into her character without being a source of ridicule or inherent misery, contributing to a net positive depiction.

The character Jerrie Kennedy, a male sex worker named Jerry in the source novels by C.J. Box, is portrayed as a non-binary character in the television series. This change in gender identity for an established character constitutes a gender swap.

Cassie Dewell, a central character in the show, was originally established as white in C.J. Box's "The Highway" novel series, which the show adapts. She is portrayed by a Black actress in the television series.