 |
| By Exact source unknown, image likely pulled from existing image on web (Google image search for "fonzie shark jump" shows many duplicates of same image), Fair use, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?curid=2840084 |
"Jump the shark" is a colloquial expression used to describe the moment when a television show, movie, or other form of media begins a decline in quality, popularity, or credibility. The term originates from a specific episode of the popular TV show "Happy Days" and has since become a widely used phrase in pop culture.
The phrase "jump the shark" comes from an episode of "Happy Days" that aired on September 20, 1977, titled "Hollywood: Part 3." In this episode, the main character, Fonzie, portrayed by Henry Winkler, water-skis over a shark while wearing his signature leather jacket. The scene was intended to be a dramatic and attention-grabbing stunt, but it came across as absurd and implausible to many viewers.
The term "jump the shark" was coined by Jon Hein, who later became a media entrepreneur and television host. In 1997, Hein started a website called "Jump the Shark," where users could discuss and vote on the moment when their favourite TV shows started to decline. The site became popular and contributed to the widespread adoption of the phrase in discussions about TV shows and other media.
The concept of "jump the shark" is often used to describe a point in a show's timeline when a significant event or change occurs that signals a noticeable decline in quality or a departure from the show's original essence. This event is seen as the point at which the show begins to lose its appeal to viewers or becomes more focused on gimmicks or outrageous storylines to maintain interest.
The phrase is not limited to TV shows but can be applied to any form of media, including movies, music, books, and even public figures or trends. It suggests that a particular work or personality has reached its peak and is now on a downward trajectory.
In summary, "jump the shark" is a pop culture term that signifies the moment when a TV show or other media starts to decline in quality, often due to a notable, gimmicky, or outlandish event that alienates viewers and detracts from the show's original appeal. The phrase continues to be used as a shorthand way of describing when something that was once beloved or successful has lost its way.
No comments:
Post a Comment