The iconic character Apu has returned to "The Simpsons" in a recent Halloween-themed episode, marking his first appearance in nearly a decade. In a significant shift for the long-running series, the Kwik-E-Mart operator is now voiced by Indian American actor Sunil Malhotra rather than Hank Azaria.

Addressing the controversy

The decision to recast the character follows years of criticism regarding racial stereotypes. For many South Asian Americans, the original portrayal was seen as a painful caricature. This discourse was highlighted by comedian Hari Kondabolu in his 2017 documentary, "The Problem With Apu."

Kondabolu has since expressed support for the show's decision to bring the character back with a more authentic voice. This move represents a notable change in how the series handles its legacy characters and cultural representation.

What else is happening in entertainment?

While the return of Apu makes headlines, the industry is seeing several other major shifts:

  • Media Leadership: Longtime CNN anchor Christiane Amanpour is set to depart the network in June 2027 after a 43-year career. Her exit follows a massive $81 billion merger involving Skydance.
  • Box Office Trends: The documentary "You Can See Everything," focused on Elizabeth Holmes, has become a hit, earning $15 million from a limited release of 855 screens.
  • Streaming and Gaming: Disney+ is debuting a live-action "Moana," while the gaming world awaits the launch of "Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 4."

A loss for character actors

The industry is also mourning the death of Richard Riehle, a prolific character actor who passed away at age 78. Riehle, whose career spanned nearly 50 years, was known for roles in "Office Space" and "Glory," as well as appearances in various "Star Trek" series.

FAQ

Who is the new voice of Apu?

Sunil Malhotra, an Indian American actor, provides the voice for the character's return.

Why was the character absent for so long?

The character had not been heard on screen for almost ten years following backlash regarding his representation.