The Simpsons’ Apu Nahasapeemapetilon has been around for nearly 25 years.
The Indian American character speaks with a funny accent and works in a convenience store and is described by some as a racist carcicature.
In her blog for the Huff Post, Mallika Rao wonders whether its time for Apu to be retired from the Simpsons.
She quotes comedian Hari Kondabolu, a staff writer for the Comedy Central show Totally Biased With W. Kamau Bell.
“There’s now enough Indian people [in Hollywood] where I don’t need to like you just because you’re Indian,” he declares. “Because growing up” — he pauses — “I had no choice but to like this,” pointing to an image of Apu flashing on the screen.
You can read Hank Azaria’s take on Apu in the Huff Post. Hank is the voice of the character.
From @joshgreenman via Twitter: RE: Is It Time for Simpson’s Apu to Go Away: Please do not offer my god a peanut