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Hank Azaria says his "eyes have been opened" and he's willing to "step aside" from playing his controversial "Simpsons" character.
The actor appeared on Tuesday's episode of "The Late Show with Stephen Colbert" and talked about the fallout surrounding the character he voices, Apu Nahasapeemapetilon.
"The idea that anybody, young or old, past or present was bullied or teased based on the character of Apu, it just really makes me sad," Azaria said. "It was certainly not my intention. I wanted to spread laughter and joy with this character and the idea that it's brought pain and suffering in any way, that it was used to marginalize people, it's upsetting."
he actor told Colbert he had nothing to do with the show's response, given that Apu doesn't speak during the episode. Azaria said he did not agree with the show's response to the controversy. Azaria said he's given a great deal of thought to how to proceed and believes "the most important thing is to listen to South Asian people, Indian people in this country when they talk about what they feel and how they thing about this character." He also called for more inclusion in "The Simpson's" writing room -- even if that means he no longer voices Apu. "I really want to see Indian, South Asian writer, writers in the room, not in a token way but genuinely informing whatever new direction this character may take, including how it is voiced or not voiced," Azaria said. "I'm perfectly willing and happy to step aside or help transition it into something new. I really hope that's what 'The Simpsons' does and it not only makes sense, but it just feels like the right thing to do to me." CNN has reached out to "The Simpsons" for comment.
--- Personally I hope the kill Apu off instead of replacing voice actor. I'd say that for any of the major voices actors on the show including major characters played by Pamela Haybe and Tress McNeil. ------------
Gone: My Discogs collection for The Roots: http://www.discogs.com/user/tomhayes-roots/collection
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