The "Problem With Apu" discussion has generally died down by now, but I came across this hefty 45-minute video released a couple days ago that offers another counterpoint to the controversy. There are a few times where Max G indulges in his own brand of smug self-righteousness a little too much (though he at least seems to recognize this and lampshades it at certain points) but overall I thought it was a pretty decent defense of Apu that isn't dismissive or antagonistic towards Hari Kondabolu's take. The whole thing is entertaining and worth watching but here are a few of the points raised, roughly summarized:
• Contrary to being a negative stereotype, Apu is one of the most positively portrayed characters on the Simpsons, while still getting to express a varied range of emotions beyond "polite and servile".
• Having a goofy exaggerated accent is a trait intrinsic to cartoon characters as a whole, and being an Indian character voiced by a white man is no more offensive than the numerous other beloved characters voiced by people of a different race or nationality (Mario is Italian but voiced by a French guy, Samurai Jack is Asian but voiced by a black guy, etc).
• Apu being used as fodder for bullying is wrong, but blame should directed at the bullies rather than the character they chose to weaponize. "Never underestimate a bully's ability to find material to work with."
