Apu Nahasapeemapetilon made his first appearance on “The Simpsons” since 2017 in the latest episode titled “Treehouse of Horror Presents: The Revengening.” Despite being seen in the background in recent years, the character had not spoken amid concerns over perpetuating racial stereotypes.
Sunil Malhotra, an Indian-American actor known for his work in “The Legend of Korra,” now voices Apu, taking over from Hank Azaria, a white actor who had portrayed the character for 27 years. In 2021, Azaria publicly apologized for his involvement in creating and performing the character, expressing regret and a desire to personally apologize to every Indian individual in the country.
Apu’s return to speaking roles was a surprise reveal in the latest episode, marking a significant moment for the character. The decision to bring back Apu and his family was made with careful consideration, aiming to evolve the character in a manner fitting for “The Simpsons.”
The show’s decision to have characters of color voiced by actors of the same background led to the recasting of other roles as well, with new actors taking on the characters of Carl Carlson and Dr. Julius Hibbert.
Reactions to Apu’s comeback have been mixed, with some fans welcoming the return and looking forward to Sunil Malhotra’s portrayal. Others have expressed reservations, with some viewers missing Hank Azaria’s interpretation of the character and questioning the show’s ongoing relevance.
The return of Apu signifies a shift in the representation of characters on the show and the ongoing efforts to address past criticisms while entertaining a diverse audience.