The Simpsons References Apu Stereotype Controversy

As we previously reported, comedian Hari Kondabolu looked at the Simpsons character Apu Nahasapeemapetilon in a recent documentary and explained how he perpetuates racist Indian stereotypes. Now it seems the show itself has weighed in on the controversy.

The episode was called “No Good Read Goes Unpunished.” In it, Marge reads Lisa an edited, inoffensive version of a book called The Princess in the Garden, which previously contained old stereotypes and morals. When Lisa mentions the emotional journey that’s now lost, Marge asks what she’s supposed to do.

Lisa replies: “It’s hard to say. Something that started out decades ago and was applauded and inoffensive is now politically incorrect.”

At that point, she turns to a framed photo of Apu and asks, “what can you do?” Marge added: “Some things will be dealt with at a later date.”

Then they both looked at the “camera” and Lisa stated: “If at all.”

#TheSimpsons completely toothless response to @harikondabolu #TheProblemWithApu about the racist character Apu:

"Something that started decades ago and was applauded and inoffensive is now politically incorrect… What can you do?" pic.twitter.com/Bj7qE2FXWN

— soham (@sohamberlamps) April 9, 2018

This seemed to upset Kondabolu, who replied on Twitter:

Wow. “Politically Incorrect?” That’s the takeaway from my movie & the discussion it sparked? Man, I really loved this show. This is sad. https://t.co/lYFH5LguEJ

— Hari Kondabolu (@harikondabolu) April 9, 2018

Et tu, Lisa?

— Hari Kondabolu (@harikondabolu) April 9, 2018

In “The Problem with Apu,” I used Apu & The Simpsons as an entry point into a larger conversation about the representation of marginalized groups & why this is important. The Simpsons response tonight is not a jab at me, but at what many of us consider progress.

— Hari Kondabolu (@harikondabolu) April 9, 2018

TO THE JOURNALISTS WHO HAVE ASKED ME FOR A PUBLIC STATEMENT ABOUT LAST NIGHT’S SIMPSONS EPISODE, I JUST WANT SAY: “Congratulations to the Simpsons for being talked about & being seen as relevant again.”

— Hari Kondabolu (@harikondabolu) April 9, 2018