Apu Returns to The Simpsons with a New Voice Actor

In January 2020, Hank Azaria stepped away from voicing one of the most beloved characters on The Simpsons, Apu Nahasapeemapetilon, the owner of the Kwik-E-Mart. The decision came after discussions between the actor and the show’s writers, who acknowledged that Apu’s portrayal was steeped in racial stereotypes. They expressed regret, leading to the character and his family being gradually sidelined in the series. Fast forward to October 18, 2026, when Apu made his official return in the Season 38 episode titled “The Revengening,” now voiced by a new actor.

Sunil Malhotra, known for roles in The Legend of Vox Machina and Grey’s Anatomy, took on the role of Apu. He engaged in extensive conversations with the show’s producers to ensure that the character would be represented in a culturally sensitive and respectful manner for audiences of Indian and South Asian descent. Malhotra recounted in an interview how he had previously walked away from a job that required him to portray a stereotypical Hindu character, but he was impressed by the showrunners’ commitment to Apu’s thoughtful return. He expressed hope that this collaborative effort would resonate with long-time fans of The Simpsons and with South Asian children who had distanced themselves from the show.

The controversy surrounding Apu began in 2017, sparked by Indian American comedian Hari Kondabolu’s documentary, which highlighted the damaging effects of the character’s stereotypical representation, to the extent that “Apu” became a racial slur. Azaria, recognizing the importance of authentic representation, chose to step down from the role. Consequently, Apu became a background character, appearing infrequently and without dialogue while the show deliberated on his future.

Nearly nine years later, Apu returned in “The Revengening,” a prelude to the upcoming “Treehouse of Horror XXXVII.” The episode humorously recounts Apu’s experiences over the past nine years. A mysterious figure known as Daft Monk is repeatedly put in peril by Springfield’s residents. When he gathers everyone at City Hall, he reveals himself as Apu, sharing his tale of being stranded on The Island of Forgotten Garbage, a place where Springfield’s discarded items end up, including characters like Dr. Nick and Leon from the infamous Michael Jackson episode.

After Apu confronts Springfield for acting as if he never existed, Marge steps forward to apologize, serving as a voice for the show’s creators: “Apu, we’re so sorry we left you for dead. Believe me, we wanted to do the right thing.” Lenny and Carl reference the many discussions that took place in the writers’ room over the years, which ultimately led to no clear resolution. The episode concludes with Apu waking up in the Kwik-E-Mart next to his wife, Manjula, now voiced by Janina Gavankar, only to discover it was all a dream. Homer then enters, inviting him to a Halloween party.

It seems The Simpsons are making a triumphant return.

The Simpsons has never shied away from honesty, and the show’s team has been open about their reluctance to bring Apu back until they felt ready to tell the right stories. Fans are thrilled about Apu’s comeback and have responded positively to Malhotra’s casting. In an Instagram post, the actor described Apu’s return as a “reclamation,” emphasizing that it truly feels like a homecoming.