Controversial Simpsons character Apu gets a voice again after eight years
The controversial Simpsons character Apu is regaining a speaking voice after eight years of silence following a period of intense public criticism. His wife Manjula has also been recast with actress Janina Gavankar, as the show continues to implement policies ensuring characters are voiced by actors of color.
The Simpsons character Apu is returning to the long-running animated series with a speaking role after an eight-year hiatus. Apu, who had been appearing in the background without lines since 2020, now has a new voice actor. Additionally, his wife Manjula has been recast, with actress Janina Gavankar taking over the role. The voice actors behind the characters expressed excitement about the return on social media, describing the development as a homecoming.
The character of Apu became the subject of significant controversy in 2017 following the release of the documentary The Problem with Apu, which highlighted negative stereotypes associated with his portrayal. In 2020, original voice actor Hank Azaria stepped down from the role as part of a wider production decision to ensure that characters of color were voiced by actors of the same background. This move followed a broader industry shift regarding racial representation in voice acting, marking a notable change for one of television's most recognizable animated sitcoms.
Based on reporting by nu. Translated and condensed by LocalHeadlines.
