# Apu returns to 'The Simpsons' with South Asian voice

> Apu's South Asian voice returns to 'The Simpsons' after years of backlash.
- Title: Apu returns to 'The Simpsons' with South Asian voice
- Summary: 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…
- Keywords: apu, the simpsons, south asian, indian american, sims, halloween, treehouse of horror, halloween episode, halloween special, halloween themed, news, local
- Source: Seattletimes — https://seattletimes.com/entertainment/after-years-of-backlash-apu-returns-to-the-simpsons-with-a-south-asian-voice
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: apu, the simpsons, south asian, indian american, sims, halloween, treehouse of horror, halloween episode, halloween special, halloween themed, news, local
## 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.
## Key takeaway

The Simpsons brings back Apu with Indian American actors after controversy over the character's stereotype.