Hari Kondabolu Calls Out ‘The Simpsons’ for Dismissing Apu Criticism

By Sameer Rao Apr 09, 2018

Hari Kondabolu took on racist depictions of South Asians in television with his documentary, "The Problem With Apu." The comedian’s film primarily focused on Apu Nahasapeemapetilon, the Kwik-E-Mart owner from "The Simpsons," and the series’ disinterest in addressing the character’s impact on pop culture.

"The Simpsons" finally acknowledged the critique at the end of last night’s (April 8) episode, provoking more criticism from Kondabolu and his supporters. 

According to The Hollywood Reporter, the episode included a scene where Lisa and Marge Simpson discussed how to handle celebrated older media that is now considered problematic.

"Something that started decades ago, and was applauded and inoffensive, is now politically incorrect. What can you do?" Lisa asked before looking over at a photo of Apu on her bedside table. The photo features an autograph that reads, "Don’t have a cow, Apu"—a jab at Apu’s Hindu faith and a callback to Bart’s popular saying.

"Some things will be dealt with at a later date," Marge responded, with Lisa adding, "If at all." Both characters then look directly at the "camera."

Watch the clip below. 

Kondabolu commented on the scene via Twitter. He accused the show of reducing his and others’ criticisms to "political correctness" and ignoring the perspectives of marginalized groups: 

Supporters added their own clapbacks:

 

Buzzfeed News reached out to "The Simpsons" creators, who reportedly responded with, "The episode speaks for itself."