“It not only makes sense, it just feels like the right thing to do to me.”

 

Speaking with Stephen Colbert on The Late Show, voice actor Hank Azaria addressed controversy over his portrayal of Apu Nahasapeemapetilon on The Simpsons and says he’s willing to step aside from the role. It’s come under scrutiny after the documentary “The Problem With Apu” raised questions about the racial stereotypical depiction the character presents.
“I’ve given this a lot of thought, and as I say my eyes have been opened,” he said. “I think the most important thing is to listen to Indian people and their experience with it. I really want to see Indian, South Asian writers in the writers room… including how [Apu] is voiced or not voiced. I’m perfectly willing and happy to step aside, or help transition it into something new.”

 

 

The Simpsons’ attempt to address the criticism in an episode a few weeks ago sparked a mixed reception.  In No Good Read Goes Unpunished, Marge is seen reading a book to Lisa that has been changed from its original version to something more politically correct.

“Something that started decades ago and was applauded and inoffensive is now politically incorrect. What can you do?,” says Lisa. The show then panned to a picture of Apu.

 

 

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