Simpsons ban on white actors voicing non-white characters

The Simpsons will no longer feature white actors voicing non-white characters, US network Fox has said.

The decision was confirmed amid growing pressure on the entertainment industry to provide more opportunities for diverse performers.

It follows a recent spike of white actors saying they will no longer voice non-white characters in animated television shows. Fox said: “Moving forward, The Simpsons will no longer have white actors voice non-white characters.”

The Simpsons, which has been on the air since 1989, had faced criticism for having Hank Azaria, who is white, voicing Indian shopkeeper Apu.

Following years of controversy, Azaria confirmed in January he would no longer perform the role. Another white actor – Harry Shearer – voiced the character of Dr Hibbert, who is black.

The announcement came shortly after similar news from another popular animated TV show.

Mike Henry, a white actor who had voiced Family Guy character Cleveland Brown since 1999, announced he was stepping down. He said: “It’s been an honour to play Cleveland but persons of colour should play characters of colour. Therefore, I will be stepping down from the role.”

Actor Kristen Bell also said she would no longer voice a black character. Meanwhile, Glasgow-educated Mad Men star Alison Brie said she regretted voicing Asian character Diane Nguyen on BoJack Horseman.