‘The Simpsons’ Officially Revives a Long-Lost Character After 9 Years

Apu has returned to *The Simpsons* in a speaking role, nine years after his last appearance, with Sunil Malhotra replacing Hank Azaria as his voice. The recasting was kept secret, and the show’s producers say the character will become a more regular presence in Springfield.

The return came in the episode “The Revengening”, which also introduced Janina Gavankar as Apu’s wife, Manjula. Malhotra said he had reservations about taking the role and sought assurances from the producers about how Apu would be handled. The recasting follows the show’s broader practice since 2020 of casting actors whose backgrounds align with the characters they voice.