Simpsons actor ready to give up the role of ‘racist stereotype’ Apu

HANK AZARIA, The Simpsons actor, has said he would be “willing to step aside” from playing Indian shopkeeper Apu, after a documentary claimed the character was a racist stereotype.

“People in the South Asian community in [the US] have been fairly upset,” said Azaria, 53. “It’s sparked a conversation about what should be done with the character.” Azaria has acted in The Simpsons since the show began in 1989, voicing dozens of characters including Moe Szyslak, the grumpy barman, and Chief Clancy Wiggum, the dim-witted chief of police.

“The idea that anyone young or old, past or present, was bullied or teased based on ... Apu? It really makes me sad,” Azaria told Stephen Colbert, the television host. “It certainly was not my intention. I wanted to bring laughter and joy.” The actor continued: “I really want to see South Asian writers in the room – not in a token way, but genuinely informing whatever new direction this character may take, including how it is voiced or not voiced.

“I’m perfectly willing to step aside, or help transition it into something new. I really hope that’s what The Simpsons does.”

In The Problem with Apu US comedian Hari Kondabolu’s 2017 TV documentary, he called the character an offensive stereotype. “Apu reflected how America viewed [Indians] – servile, devious and goofy,” he said.

The Simpsons nodded towards the controversy earlier this month, with an episode in which Marge and Lisa Simpson read an old children’s book, and are surprised by its “offensive” characters. “Something that started decades ago and was applauded and inoffensive is now politically incorrect,” Lisa says. “What can you do?”