Actor who is voice of The Simpsons' Apu is prepared to step down from role following controversy

The actor who is the voice of Apu on The Simpsons said he is willing to step down from the role following controversy surrounding his portrayal of the character.

Hank Azaria addressed the recent backlash over the voice of Apu Nahasapeemapetilon in the show.

Speaking on the The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, Mr Azaria said he had given the issue “a lot of thought.”

The portrayal of Apu came under scrutiny after the documentary “The Problem with Apu” was released in November 2017.

Many people pointed out that the character was a stereotypical depiction of an Indian migrant and described it as “problematic.”

Mr Azaria said: “I think the most important thing is to listen to Indian people and their experience with it,

“I really want to see Indian, South Asian writers in the writers room…including how [Apu] is voiced or not voiced. I’m perfectly willing to step aside. It just feels like the right thing to do to me.”

He said that the controversy surrounding the character had come to his attention “more and more over the years.”

“The idea that anyone young or old, past or present, being bullied based on Apu really makes me sad,” he continued. “It certainly was not my intention. I wanted to bring joy and laughter to people.”

The Simpsons writers released an episode entitled “No Good Read Goes Unpunished” as a response to the mounting controversy.

In the episode Marge decided to read a book which was a childhood favourite of hers to Lisa. However during the story-telling, Marge realised the book was culturally offensive.

Speaking to camera, Lisa addressed the audience and said: “Something that started decades ago and was applauded and inoffensive is now politically incorrect. What can you do?”

The episode received criticism by some who said the show was making light of the situation.

Showrunner Al Jean tweeted in response: “I truly appreciate all responses pro and con. Will continue to try to find an answer that is popular and more important right.”