Rodrigues claims that Apu Nahasapeemapetilon of The Simpsons is simply a comedic caricature that needs to be modified to keep up with modern times. I argue that Apu is in fact perpetuating a faulty perception of South Asian cultures that is not only offensive, but also dangerous. With The Simpson’s wide sphere of influence, several South Asian performers’ experiences have been tainted by the representation of Apu.
An illegal immigrant eliciting laughter, Apu is the “perfect” caricature of an Indian shopkeeper with octuplets in an arranged marriage—perfect to fuel xenophobic sentiments. With a last name that is a frustrating tongue twister and a ridiculous over-the-top accent, Apu is a fallacious, noxious pastiche of South Asian stereotypes. Is it still an overreaction for Hank Azaria, the voice of Apu, to step down? Hank Azaria is right. The outrage is more than warranted—it is necessary. Even more so, his portrayal strengthens the first-world conception of foreigners coming to the country, stealing jobs and raising large families and “invading” America.
Since 1989, The Simpsons has a wide viewer base tracking its 30 seasons and has been a pioneer in exploiting negative racial stereotypes. The show has thus fuelled intimidation on school grounds, resentment in office spaces, discrimination in employment opportunities.
Is The Simpsons the first or the only series to use ethnic clichés for entertainment? Certainly not. Yet, the attitude of the animated series is an ethically suspect choice, not a moral one. It is conformity of a concept that is politically incorrect, irrespective of changing times.
The Fox Network is under the misconception that all they need to do is tweak the characters that fuel racial stereotypes to adapt to the modern age. Xenophobia is not a modern concept—it is a timeless disease. It is high time the entertainment industry became sensitive to the consequences of creating these not-so-perfect caricatures.