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The Simpsons' Hank Azaria apologises for playing Apu

Photo credit: Fox/Contributor - Getty Images
Photo credit: Fox/Contributor - Getty Images

The Simpsons star Hank Azaria has apologised for portraying the Indian character Apu Nahasapeemapetilon on the animated comedy series, saying that the character has become a "slur".

Appearing on the Armchair Expert podcast, hosted by Dax Shepard and Indian American star Monica Padman, the actor talked about the negative impact the character – and a Caucasian person's portrayal of the character – has had.

"I've had a date with destiny with this thing for about 31 years," he said. "Part of me feels like I need to go around to every single Indian person in this country and personally apologise, and sometimes I do when it comes up."

Photo credit: Amy Sussman - Getty Images
Photo credit: Amy Sussman - Getty Images

Related: The Simpsons showrunner discusses its future and how many episodes are left

Speaking specifically to Padman, he added: "I know you weren't asking for that, but it's important. I apologise for my part in creating that and participating in that."

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Azaria recalled going to schools and speaking to Indian kids and learning first-hand how people were bullied because of the character.

"A 17-year-old... he's never even seen The Simpsons but knows what Apu means," Azaria recalled. "It's practically a slur at this point. All he knows is that is how his people are thought of and represented to many people in this country."

Photo credit: FOX/Contributor - Getty Images
Photo credit: FOX/Contributor - Getty Images

Related: The Simpsons boss responds to fans who think new episodes aren't as good

He went on to say: "If it's an Indian character or a Latinx character or a Black character, please let's have that person voice the character.

"It's more authentic, they'll bring their experience to it, and let's not take jobs away from people who don't have enough."

Azaria stepped down from the role following the 2017 documentary The Problem with Apu. The writers have stated that the character will remain on the show, but a new actor has not been announced at the time of writing

The Simpsons is now available to watch on Disney+ in the US and the UK.


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