He's a beloved Simpson's character. He's an Indian immigrant who runs a convenience store. So what's to take offense at? The fact that he's got brown skin? The fact that he's got an Indian name? The fact that he speaks with an exaggerated Indian accent? The fact that he runs a convenience store?
Hank Azaria, the actor who voices the character, practically apologized for offending the Asian community on the Late Show the other night. He said he may stop voicing Apu altogether.
The mainstream press is all abuzz over whether Abu should stay or go. Most, like this CNN commentary, seem to think he should "evolve" into a more acceptable role model for young Asians. What's more acceptable? Making his skin a bit whiter? Making his accent a bit more American? Moving him up and out of the convenience store job into a more respectable career?
By the way, my local 7-11 is run by a very nice Indian family. And yes, they all have brown skin and thick Indian accents. The owner's name is Alpesh.
Hank Azaria, the actor who voices the character, practically apologized for offending the Asian community on the Late Show the other night. He said he may stop voicing Apu altogether.
The mainstream press is all abuzz over whether Abu should stay or go. Most, like this CNN commentary, seem to think he should "evolve" into a more acceptable role model for young Asians. What's more acceptable? Making his skin a bit whiter? Making his accent a bit more American? Moving him up and out of the convenience store job into a more respectable career?
By the way, my local 7-11 is run by a very nice Indian family. And yes, they all have brown skin and thick Indian accents. The owner's name is Alpesh.
