Apu returns to The Simpsons with a new voice actor after a nine-year absence
Apu, a character from The Simpsons, has returned to voice roles after a nine-year absence. Sunil Malhotra, an Indian actor who immigrated to the U.S. as a child, took over from Hank Azaria, who stepped down in 2020. The character, who worked at Kwik-E-Mart in Springfield, spoke again in a 2026 episode.
- The character Apu has returned to 'The Simpsons' with a new voice.
- Hari Kondabolu released the documentary 'The Problem with Apu' in 2017.
- Hank Azaria previously voiced Apu in the animation series.
- Janina Gavankar debuted as Apu’s wife, Manjula.
- The character Apu works as a manager at Kwik-E-Mart in Springfield.
- Sunil Malhotra is voicing Apu in the episode "Treehouse of Horror Presents: The Revengening."
- Hank Azaria apologized for contributing to stereotypes in 2021.
- Apu was removed from voice roles amid accusations of racial stereotypes.
- Producers announced in 2020 that white actors would not voice non-white characters.
- Apu had not spoken in the series for about ten years.
- A racism debate occurred regarding the character's stereotypical and racist portrayal.
- Executive producer Matt Selman stated they wanted to bring the character back in a smart way.
- Bhoomi Thakore stated Apu represented a specific stereotype for some.
- Malhotra discussed making the character culturally appropriate in 2026.
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