A 2017 documentary, "The Problem with Apu", written by and starring comedian Hari Kondabolu, critiqued the character as being a South Asian stereotype, which later led to Azaria announcing he was stepping down as the voice of the character so long as he maintains his current personality. However, Azaria also acknowledged that he does not have control over the character's future and that the decision was made in unison with the "Simpsons" production crew. "Simpsons" creator Matt Groening stated in August 2019 that Apu will remain on the show.