The Simpsons: 10 Greatest Apu Moments
2. Becoming An American
Even without the social commentary, this episode has so much to offer. After putting up taxes to fend off bear attacks, Quimby desperately shifts tension by blaming illegal immigrants. Moe knew it was dem immigants! Even when it was bears, he knew it was dem!
Homer, very prone to mob mentality, originally campaigns to deport illegal immigrants, until he discovers Apu is one. This is the kind of moment pro-Apu fans will point to. His story of staying in America until his student debts are paid, then not wanting to leave his new home and friends is realistic and played straight. The only laughs come from Bart accidentally wrecking his thesis, which would be funny wherever Apu was from.
While his accent is a hot topic right now, his switch to American to is brilliant. Azaria does great work to make his voice somehow completely like Apu’s and nothing like it at the same time. When ignoring his heritage doesn’t work, Apu instead learns US history to apply for citizenship. Homer teaches him first, then (much more successfully) Lisa takes a shot.
He passes with flying colours, with the episode ending on Lisa’s confusing comments about American Indians (like me!).