After nearly nine years without speaking dialogue, Apu Nahasapeemapetilon has officially returned as a speaking character on The Simpsons. Voice actor Sunil Malhotra has taken over the iconic role from Hank Azaria, marking a major milestone for the long-running animated comedy.
The character reappeared during the October 18, 2026, Season 38 Halloween special, titled “Treehouse of Horrors Presents: The Revengening.” The episode addressed the character’s long absence head-on, opening a new chapter for the Springfield convenience store owner following years of real-world controversy surrounding his original portrayal.
The Return of Apu and Manjula in Season 38
In addition to Malhotra stepping in as Apu, the episode introduced a new voice for Apu’s wife, Manjula. Actress Janina Gavankar took over the role, which was previously voiced by Jan Hooks and Tress MacNeille. According to reporting by outlets like TVLine, ScreenRant, and Variety, these casting changes are designed to support the characters’ permanent return to active roles in the series.
Executive producer Matt Selman confirmed that viewers can expect regular appearances from Apu moving forward. While specific storylines have not yet been detailed, the creative team indicated that the character’s reintegration into Springfield is designed to be permanent rather than a one-off gag.
Addressing Past Controversy and Finding a New Voice
The Simpsons temporarily retired Apu from speaking lines following extensive criticism over a Caucasian actor voicing the character with an exaggerated accent, as well as accusations that the character relied on racial stereotypes. The conversation reached widespread public attention following comedian Hari Kondabolu’s 2017 documentary, The Problem with Apu.
Hank Azaria eventually stepped away from the role, expressing deep regret for his part in perpetuating harmful tropes. For nearly a decade, Apu remained visible only in silent background crowd shots.
Sunil Malhotra admitted that his initial reaction to the audition request was hesitation. Known for his work in The Legend of Korra, The Legend of Vox Machina, and Grey’s Anatomy, Malhotra initially felt his stomach sink at the thought of taking on the controversial role.
“When my agent called me about a ‘Simpsons’ audition, I knew exactly what role it was for, and the idea actually made my stomach sink,” Malhotra shared. “Did the writers’ room look different now? Could they bring him back in a way that acknowledged and apologized for past mistakes? Could I make the character my own, and reclaim him in some way?”
After requesting meetings with showrunner Matt Selman and co-executive producer Cesar Mazariegos to discuss cultural appropriateness and respectful character evolution, Malhotra agreed to take on the part.
Inside “The Revengening” Plot
The Season 38 Halloween special utilized a satirical storyline to mirror the production team’s real-world deliberations. In the episode, Springfield residents accidentally run over a man wearing a “Daft Monk” costume and hide the body rather than calling the authorities.
A year later, the costumed figure returns seeking revenge on everyone who left him for dead. When the mask finally comes off at Springfield City Hall, the character reveals himself to be Apu, shouting a rage-fueled declaration on behalf of everyone who felt ignored.
The townspeople, including Marge, Bart, Lenny, and Carl, offer meta-commentary acknowledging the show’s internal struggles regarding how to handle the character over the past decade. Ultimately, the ordeal turns out to be a dream, leaving Apu safely back behind the counter of the Kwik-E-Mart alongside Manjula.
Frequently Asked Questions About Apu’s Recasting
Who is the new voice actor for Apu on The Simpsons?
Sunil Malhotra took over the voice of Apu Nahasapeemapetilon starting in Season 38.
Who previously voiced Apu?
Hank Azaria originally voiced Apu for the first 29 seasons of the show before stepping down from the role in 2020.
Why did Apu stop speaking on The Simpsons?
The character was sidelined following years of criticism regarding racial stereotypes and the use of a non-South Asian actor to voice the character, a conversation amplified by the 2017 documentary The Problem with Apu.
Who voices Manjula now?
Janina Gavankar has taken over the role of Apu’s wife, Manjula, replacing previous voice actors Jan Hooks and Tress MacNeille.
Will Apu remain a regular character on the show?
Yes. Executive producer Matt Selman confirmed that Apu and the Nahasapeemapetilon family will make regular appearances in future episodes of Season 38 and beyond.
