From Seattletimes · · 1m 20s
Apu returns to 'The Simpsons' with South Asian voice
Apu's South Asian voice returns to 'The Simpsons' after years of backlash.
In brief
Apu's South Asian voice returns to 'The Simpsons' after years of backlash. The Simpsons brings back Apu with Indian American actors after controversy over the character's stereotype. Originally reported by Seattletimes.
Apu's return
Apu, the Kwik-E-Mart operator, returns to 'The Simpsons' after a decade-long absence.
“Bringing Apu back feels like a reclamation. It truly IS his homecoming”
South Asian actors
Sunil Malhotra and Janina Gavankar, Indian American actors, voice Apu and his wife.
Documentary impact
Hari Kondabolu's 2017 documentary 'The Problem With Apu' sparked debate about the character's stereotype.
Apu's stereotype
Apu was seen as a painful stereotype for South Asian Americans, with critics citing his limited representation.
Hank Azaria's role
Hank Azaria, a white actor, voiced Apu for decades before stepping away after the documentary.
The Simpsons' response
The Simpsons responded to the documentary with a 2018 episode featuring Lisa's concern about Apu's status.
Recasting decision
The Simpsons recast two Black characters with Black actors in response to racial reckoning demonstrations.
South Asian support
South Asian Americans welcomed Apu's return despite controversy, seeing him as a relatable character.
Current context
Apu's return coincides with rising anti-South Asian hate and increased representation of South Asian Americans.
Here's the gist
The Simpsons brings back Apu with Indian American actors after controversy over the character's stereotype.
