The Simpsons has introduced a new voice actor for the character Apu Nahasapeemapetilon, one of the show’s longstanding figures. American actor Sunil Malhotra, who immigrated to the United States from India during childhood, made his debut voicing the character during an episode that aired on Sunday. The change comes eight years after Apu last appeared with a speaking role on the series.
The original voice actor, Hank Azaria, faced criticism alongside the show’s producers for the character’s portrayal, which many viewed as relying on stereotypical and racist depictions. A 2020 documentary titled “The Problem With Apu” by Indian American comedian Hari Kondabolu brought renewed attention to these concerns. In response, Azaria announced he would step down from the role and subsequently apologized publicly for his involvement in the characterization.
The Simpsons’ production team took measures to keep Malhotra’s casting confidential. Review copies of the episode, titled “Treehouse of Horror Presents: The Revengening,” were not distributed in advance, and participants in the table read were required to sign non-disclosure agreements. Additionally, the character’s wife Manjula received a new voice actor, with Janina Gavankar, known for her work on “The Morning Show,” taking over the role previously performed by Jan Hooks and Tress MacNeille.
Malhotra initially hesitated to accept the part, according to statements made to industry publications. He questioned whether the writers’ room had evolved and whether the character could be reintroduced in a manner that acknowledged previous missteps. After meeting with showrunner Matt Selman and co-executive producer Cesar Mazariegos, Malhotra agreed to the role. Selman indicated that Apu and the broader Nahasapeemapetilon family will feature more prominently in upcoming episodes as the character develops.
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