Brief
Sunil Malhotra voices Apu in first Simpsons appearance in eight years
The long‑awaited return of Apu is marked by Indian‑American actor Sunil Malhotra taking over the role in a Halloween‑themed episode.
By Felo News Desk · Published
The Simpsons introduced a new voice for Apu Nahasapeemapetilon on Sunday, October 18, after the character had not spoken since 2017.
Sunil Malhotra, an Indian‑born actor who moved to the United States as a child, made his debut in the Halloween‑themed "Treehouse of Horror Presents: The Revengening" episode, where Apu is unmasked as a mysterious figure causing chaos.
Malhotra, who has appeared in shows such as ER, House and The West Wing, said his stomach "sunk" when his agent first offered the role, noting the eight‑year gap and the need to address past criticisms of the character’s stereotypical portrayal.
He told Deadline that he met with showrunner Matt Selman to ensure Apu’s return would respect South Asian viewers, adding, "I really feel like we did, and I can’t wait for fans to see more Apu." Hank Azaria, who previously voiced Apu, confirmed in 2020 that the character had been dropped from his repertoire, stating the decision was a collective one.
Janina Gavankar also joins the cast as Apu’s wife Manjula, a role previously voiced by Jan Hooks and Tress MacNeille. In a joint Instagram post, the actors said, "Bringing Apu back feels like a reclamation. It truly IS his homecoming."
Key facts
- Sunil Malhotra voiced Apu for the first time on October 18, 2026. (standard.co.uk)
- Apu had not spoken on The Simpsons since 2017. (standard.co.uk)
- The episode was a Halloween‑themed "Treehouse of Horror" special. (standard.co.uk)
- Janina Gavankar voices Apu’s wife Manjula. (standard.co.uk)
- Hank Azaria confirmed in 2020 that Apu was removed from his voice duties. (standard.co.uk)
Sources
- [1] standard.co.uk — originally reported as “The Simpsons casts new voice for Apu as character speaks for first time in years”
