With episode 636, The Simpsons has overtaken Gunsmoke as America's longest-running scripted TV show, but for the first time it has faced criticism of being racist, media reported.

The polemics over the character of Apu Nahasapeemapetion, man of Indian origin who runs a supermarket and speaks with a strong accent, prompting criticism of authors for nourishing stereotypes.

In order to correct it, Hank Azaria (who also voices other characters on the show) is planning to let a South Asian actor to take the role and help transition the character to a less stereotypical portrayal. 

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