NEW YORK -- Hank Azaria is ready to stop voicing Kwik-E-Mart owner Apu on "The Simpsons" in the wake of criticism that it's a stereotype.
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Azaria said on Tuesday's "The Late Show with Stephen Colbert" that he hopes the Fox animated show makes a change, and he's willing to step aside if necessary.
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."
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He added: "It just feels like the right thing to do."
People of South Asian heritage have criticized the heavily accented Apu for reinforcing stereotypes they say lead to bullying and self-loathing. Azaria said it makes him sad if anyone was bullied because of Apu. He said he "wanted to spread laughter and joy with this character."
In this May 31, 2017 file photo, Hank Azaria arrives at the "Brockmire" and "Documentary Now!" For Your Consideration event in Los Angeles. (Photo by Richard Shotwell/Invision/AP, File)