Jump the Shark Definition
Television critics often describe a show that has passed its prime as jumping the shark. However, younger television viewers may find themselves wondering about the definition of this particular terminology.
The phrase is thought to have originated from a 1977 episode of the Happy Days when the character Arthur "Fonzie" Fonzarelli jumped over a shark while water skiing. The scene was widely criticized as a desperate attempt to revive the ratings of a rapidly failing series. Thus, a show is now said to jump the shark whenever the writers create a plotline that is difficult for loyal fans to believe.
Obviously, determining when a show has jumped the shark is a somewhat subjective process. However, common tactics used may include:
- Replacing a major character with a different actor
- Having a major character suddenly die or leave the show for no apparent reason
- Introducing a new character with no obvious purpose, usually an adorable young child
- Having two characters marry or have a child together
- Having an all musical episode of a show whether the characters are not known for their singing abilities
- Creating a special episode that drastically deviates from the main tone of the show, such as a serious discussion of teen pregnancy on a popular sitcom
- Including gratuitous sex and violence used exclusively for shock value
A show generally isn’t said to have jumped the shark until it has enjoyed several seasons of intense popularity, making it more difficult for the writers to come up with new plotlines. Although a show that has jumped the shark may seem destined for cancellation, it’s interesting to note that this defining moment in a program’s history does not indicate a sudden death. For example, Happy Days went on to produce an additional 100 episodes after the infamous jumping the shark incident.
If you are interested in learning more about how the jumping the shark metaphor is used in the television industry, yourDictionary recommends visiting the Jump the Shark Web site. This is a popular resource for television fans in search of a forum in which to discuss the fate of their favorite shows.