In the latest episode of “The Simpsons,” Apu Nahasapeemapetilon made his first speaking appearance since 2017, breaking his silence after being criticized for perpetuating racial stereotypes. Voiced by Indian-American actor Sunil Malhotra, who has credits in “The Legend of Korra,” Apu takes over the role from Hank Azaria, a white actor who had voiced the character for 27 years.
The character’s return was kept under wraps until the recent episode aired, surprising fans with a significant role. The decision to bring back Apu with a new voice actor aligns with the show’s commitment to having characters of color voiced by actors of the same ethnicity, a shift announced in June 2020.
Apu’s comeback was met with mixed reactions online, with some fans welcoming the return and expressing curiosity about Malhotra’s portrayal, while others expressed nostalgia for Azaria’s rendition. The show’s creator, Matt Selman, emphasized that Apu and his family will have a more prominent presence in future episodes, aiming to evolve the character in a “Simpsons”-style manner.
Indian-American comedian Rajiv Satyal hailed Apu’s return as a significant cultural moment, appreciating the opportunities given to talented performers like Malhotra and Janina Gavankar, who now voices Apu’s wife, Manjula. Satyal highlighted the importance of representation in casting decisions, advocating for more opportunities for actors from diverse communities.
Overall, the reintroduction of Apu with a new voice actor marks a notable shift in the portrayal of characters of color on “The Simpsons,” sparking discussions among fans about the evolving landscape of representation in popular media.
