The Simpsons has responded to ongoing criticisms regarding the portrayal of Southeast Asain character Apu Nahasapeemapetilon. During Sunday’s “No Good Read Goes Unpunished” episode, Marge and Lisa Simpson allude to the controversy after reading the fictional book The Princess in the Garden.
Realizing how many stereotypes are contained within the story, Marge rewrites and shares it with Lisa. Reading the edited version, Lisa responds by looking at the camera and saying: “Something that started decades ago, and was applauded and inoffensive, is now politically incorrect. What can you do?”
The scene then cuts to a photo of Apu featuring the caption "Don’t have a cow," with Marge finalizing the segment by stating, “Some things will be dealt with at a later date. Lisa then adds, "If at all.”
Since the show's beginning, Apu has been voiced by white, American actor Hank Azaria. Issues with his portrayal became the subject of Hari Kondabolu's 2017 documentary The Problem with Apu, which explored Apu's impact on Southeast Asian actors. The docudrama included interviews with the likes of Aziz Ansari and Kal Penn.
Taking to Twitter, Kondabolu responded to the episode. "Wow. 'Politically Incorrect?' That’s the takeaway from my movie & the discussion it sparked? Man, I really loved this show. This is sad."
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In other news, here's a quick look at Hans Solo in the 'Solo: A Star Wars Story' trailer.