'The Simpsons' executive producer responds to Apu controversy
An episode from last week addresses concern that the character represents a racist stereotype
PHOTO: INDIAN EXPRESS
LOS ANGELES:
The Simpsons showrunner and executive producer Al Jean has responded to the feedback surrounding a recent Simpsons episode that attempted to address the controversy over the depiction of character Apu Nahasapeemapetilon.
The sitcom featured a South Asian character called Apu, who has had to grapple with the troubling stereotype of a convenience store clerk with an exaggerated, fake Indian accent since the show's existence. It was voiced by Hank Azaria.
"I truly appreciate all the responses pro and con. Will continue to try and find an answer that is popular and more important(ly) right," Jean tweeted.
An episode from last week of the animated series addressed that Apu represents a racist stereotype through a line, from the character Lisa, delivered while Marge reads her a bedtime story.
"Something that started decades ago and was applauded and inoffensive is now politically incorrect. What can you do?" said Marge.
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Lisa then looks over at a framed photograph of Apu, which has the line, "Don't have a cow!" written on it.
Marge states, "Some things will be dealt with at a later date," to which, Lisa responds, "If at all."
'The Simpsons' Apu racist controversy distress Hank Azaria
Though the episode was well-received by some, many felt the attempt was half-hearted and underdone.
Hari Kondabolu, an American comedian and the film-maker with roots in India, who is behind the documentary The Problem with Apu, wrote, "Wow. ‘Politically Incorrect?' That's the takeaway from my movie and the discussion it sparked? Man, I really loved this show. This is sad."
Have something to add to the story? Share it in the comments below.
The Simpsons showrunner and executive producer Al Jean has responded to the feedback surrounding a recent Simpsons episode that attempted to address the controversy over the depiction of character Apu Nahasapeemapetilon.
The sitcom featured a South Asian character called Apu, who has had to grapple with the troubling stereotype of a convenience store clerk with an exaggerated, fake Indian accent since the show's existence. It was voiced by Hank Azaria.
"I truly appreciate all the responses pro and con. Will continue to try and find an answer that is popular and more important(ly) right," Jean tweeted.
An episode from last week of the animated series addressed that Apu represents a racist stereotype through a line, from the character Lisa, delivered while Marge reads her a bedtime story.
"Something that started decades ago and was applauded and inoffensive is now politically incorrect. What can you do?" said Marge.
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Lisa then looks over at a framed photograph of Apu, which has the line, "Don't have a cow!" written on it.
Marge states, "Some things will be dealt with at a later date," to which, Lisa responds, "If at all."
'The Simpsons' Apu racist controversy distress Hank Azaria
Though the episode was well-received by some, many felt the attempt was half-hearted and underdone.
Hari Kondabolu, an American comedian and the film-maker with roots in India, who is behind the documentary The Problem with Apu, wrote, "Wow. ‘Politically Incorrect?' That's the takeaway from my movie and the discussion it sparked? Man, I really loved this show. This is sad."
Have something to add to the story? Share it in the comments below.