When a TV Show Jumps the Shark
The term "jumping the shark" is a slang expression used to describe the moment in a TV show's run when it takes a sudden and drastic turn for the worse. The phrase originated from the 1977 episode of the sitcom "Happy Days" in which the character Fonzie literally jumped over a shark while waterskiing. This episode was widely seen as a sign that the show was running out of ideas and was starting to decline in quality. There are many different factors that can contribute to a TV show jumping the shark. Some common examples include: Introducing new characters or storylines that are too outlandish or unrealistic. Changing the show's tone or genre in a way that alienates fans. Making the show too self-referential or meta. Running out of new ideas and resorting to recycled plots or characters. When a TV show jumps the shark, it can be a sign that the show is on its way out. However, there are some exceptions. For example, the show "The Simpsons" has been accu…
