Simpsons Season 38 Revives Apu with New Voice Actor Sunil Malhotra

Apu Nahasapeemapetilon has returned to Springfield in Season 38, featuring a new voice actor. The character, who debuted during the show’s inaugural season as the Kwik-E-Mart operator, was absent from the program for several years due to controversy over his portrayal.

The Revengening Episode Details

The comeback occurs in the Halloween-themed episode titled "The Revengening." This installment serves as a non-canon parody of the film "I Know What You Did Last Summer." In the narrative, Homer, Marge, and other residents discover that a figure dressed as "Daft Monk"—a parody of Daft Punk wearing monk robes—has returned seeking retribution for a murder committed during a previous Halloween.

The costumed antagonist is revealed to be Apu, now voiced by Sunil Malhotra. The plot explains his survival after being dumped into the ocean; he washed ashore on an island containing discarded items from early episodes, such as Homer’s car "The Homer," and characters like Dr. Nick Rivera and Leon Kompowsky.

Upon returning to Springfield, Apu finds that no one remembered or missed him. He subsequently seeks revenge against the townspeople. However, the violent sequence is ultimately revealed to be a dream Apu experienced while sleeping at the Kwik-E-Mart checkout counter. The episode concludes with Homer inviting Apu to a BYOB Halloween party, emphasizing the community’s appreciation for his presence.

Showrunner Confirms Permanent Recast

This appearance indicates a long-term change rather than a one-off cameo. Showrunner Matt Selman confirmed to Variety that the recasting represents the start of a new era for the character. Janina Gavankar has also been cast as Manjula, Apu’s significant other.

"We love this character, and wanted to bring him back in a smart, 'Simpsons'-y way that allowed him to evolve," Selman stated. He added that the production team is excited about what Sunil Malhotra brings to the role and looks forward to seeing more of Apu in future episodes.

The decision to recast follows years of debate regarding the character’s depiction. Originally voiced by white actor Hank Azaria, Apu faced criticism for relying on South Asian caricatures. By June 2020, the character had largely disappeared from the show as it moved away from having white actors voice characters of color. Azaria had previously offered apologies for his involvement in the role.

While specific details about upcoming episodes featuring Apu and Manjula remain undisclosed due to pre-release secrecy, the creative reintroduction in "The Revengening" addresses the character’s complex history. Apu has been recognized both as one of the series' best characters and as a symbol of limited roles for South Asians in American culture.