The Simpsons has reintroduced speaking dialogue for Apu Nahasapeemapetilon, with actor Sunil Malhotra taking over the character’s voice after a hiatus of nearly a decade.
Malhotra made his debut as Apu in an episode of the long-running animated series that aired on Sunday, October 18, marking a change for one of the show’s most recognisable characters.
Apu had previously been voiced by Hank Azaria, who stepped away from the role amid criticism over the character’s portrayal of South Asian people.
The debate intensified in 2017 following renewed scrutiny of racial stereotypes in the series. Azaria later said he would no longer voice the character, and Apu subsequently appeared on the show without speaking.
Malhotra, an American actor who moved to the United States from India as a child, has worked across television, animation and voice acting.
His appointment brings Apu back into dialogue while placing the character’s representation at the centre of renewed discussion about casting and cultural identity in animation.
The controversy surrounding Apu has formed part of a wider debate in the entertainment industry over who gets to portray particular communities and how fictional characters influence public perceptions.
The character’s return with a new voice actor marks a fresh chapter for The Simpsons as the series continues to revisit its longstanding characters and their place in contemporary culture.
