The Controversial Return of Apu: Will He Ever Return to The Simpsons?

By Julia Jacobs, Published Jan. 17, 2020, Updated Oct. 8, 2021

The character of Apu Nahasapeemapetilon from The Simpsons has been a longtime source of controversy,with Hank Azaria deciding to stop voicing the character due to concerns about cultural insensitivity. Yet, the future of Apu remains uncertain, with the producers and network silent on the matter. Will he ever return, and if so, how?

Actor's Decision and Its Impact

The decision by voice actor Hank Azaria to stop voicing Apu Nahasapeemapetilon has sent shockwaves through the The Simpsons community. Azaria, who has voiced the character since its creation in 1990, announced his decision first reported by Slashfilm in October 2021.

Despite the decision, it remains unclear what this means for the character's future. The producers and network have not commented on whether Apu will receive a new voice or be retired from the show. This leaves fans wondering about the fate of a character who has been a part of the Simpson family for over three decades.

Recasting and Controversy

Recasting other characters in The Simpsons is not a new phenomenon. The character of Lou, who voices Dr. Hibbert, had a new voice actor brought in without much fanfare. However, Apu has not seen a similar treatment, much to the surprise of many fans. Some argue that Dr. Hibbert is as integral to the show as Apu, with several appearances throughout the series. Despite this, Apu remains without a replacement.

While Apu did not appear in the last season, he did have a significant presence in Season 33's finale, making 19 appearances in the ongoing storyline. His last major voice was in 2017, but his character has not been fully phased out. The producers' decision to not recast Apu adds another layer of complexity to the debate.

Reactions to the Controversy

The controversy surrounding Apu Nahasapeemapetilon is complex, with different groups expressing varied opinions. Some South Asian individuals and organizations have criticized the character for perpetuating racial stereotypes. However, others view Apu as a character that they enjoy.

Personal experiences have further fueled this debate. The author, who works with an Indian woman, found it interesting that despite the character perpetuating stereotypes, she hated him because her husband loved him. Her husband's enjoyment of the character seemed to upset her greatly for reasons she couldn't fully explain.

Future of Apu and Conclusion

Recent discussions suggest that there is a desire to bring back Apu, but with a different voice actor. However, this is still in development, and nothing has been confirmed. The producers and network have been tight-lipped about any plans for Apu's return.

The fate of Apu Nahasapeemapetilon remains uncertain. Whether he returns, and how the producers tackle this controversial character, will be watched closely by fans of The Simpsons. The decision to continue or remove a character that has been a part of the show for three decades is significant, and the reaction from both the audience and the critics will undoubtedly shape the future of The Simpsons.