The internet is buzzing, and not in a good way, about Menik Gooneratne's Hindi accent in the new Apple TV+ sci-fi series, Pluribus.
Published on December 6, 2025, the series, created by Breaking Bad's Vince Gilligan, features Sri Lankan-Australian actress and writer Menik Gooneratne as Laxmi. But it's not her performance that's making headlines; it's her Hindi.
Pluribus is a show about a hive-mind alien virus that has taken over the Earth’s population. The show follows Rhea Seehorn, who plays Carol Sturka, a miserable best-selling author of a series of pirate-themed speculative historical romance books. She is one of the 13 people in the world who are immune to the virus. The Apple TV+ original premiered on November 7 with two episodes, followed by weekly drops that will wrap up the nine-episode season on December 26.
So, what's the issue?
Many viewers took to social media to express their disappointment with Gooneratne's Hindi accent in a particular scene. One user on Threads summed it up with, "Massive Hollywood productions, but they can’t find one Indian actor who can speak in Hindi? What is she even saying?" Another user agreed, stating that the scene's powerful characterization was "ruined by the dialogue." The sentiment was echoed by others, with some suggesting the producers were being "lazy" in their casting choices.
But here's where it gets controversial...
Not everyone agreed. Some users defended Gooneratne, suggesting her accent might be accurate given her background. One user wrote, "I guess a Sri Lankan who grew up in India speaking Hindi for a while and moved abroad would probably sound like her." Others compared the accent to Sheldon Cooper's infamously bad pronunciation. One user suggested that the producers could have cast Radhika Apte.
And this is the part most people miss...
The debate highlights a larger conversation about representation and authenticity in Hollywood. Is it acceptable for actors to attempt accents outside their native tongue, even if the result isn't perfect? Or does it detract from the viewing experience and perpetuate stereotypes?
What do you think? Share your thoughts in the comments below! Do you think the criticism is valid, or are people being too harsh? Did the accent bother you, or did you find it believable? Let's discuss!
