The IT Crowd frequently uses LGBTQ+ identities, particularly gay and trans identities, as comedic plot devices. Characters often pretend to be gay or trans for personal gain or to avoid social situations, leading to humor derived from misunderstandings rather than affirming portrayals. These depictions often lean into problematic stereotypes or use identity as a prop without significant positive counterbalance.

The IT Crowd features a transsexual character, April, whose identity is revealed as a comedic twist. This revelation prompts a violent and disgusted reaction from another character, Douglas, which is played for laughs. The portrayal uses trans identity as a source of shock and negative humor, presenting transphobia without critical counterbalance, resulting in a problematic depiction.