Any subject can be the keystone to a great essay. That depends upon the writer and how the subject is viewed by the reader. Certain subjects just have more risk to them. Difficult to do well, greater chance of being assessed negatively.
For those who really feel a risky subject is key to a terrific essay, go for it. Write the essay and pick some colleges apps to showcase it. But I’d also apply to some colleges leaving out that essay. Don’t put your eggs in one basket when the that basket is gorgeous but possibly precarious in holding those eggs.