Here, we show that curcumin, an active hydrophobic polyphenolic compound extracted from turmeric, could reverse angiotensin II‐induced podocyte injury and apoptosis in a dose‐dependent manner. We found this protective effect of curcumin to be at least partly achieved by inhibiting endoplasmic reticulum stress. Therefore, curcumin may have potential for future development into a possible treatment for chronic kidney disease.