Jumping the shark refers to a change or addition that changes the story and can’t be undone. When you jump on a shark, you can’t easily get back off (without it attacking you).
The meaning of the term may have changed or varied a little over the years, but the original meaning is as Lola explains it in panel 2. It comes from an episode of Happy Days where Fonzie — on a trip to California (with the Cunninghams, of course) — jumps over a shark-filled tank on water skis.
And yes, depending on the show and the nature of the “shark-jumping” event (not to mention the many opinions of the viewers), it may signal that the show is going downhill.
I remember a couple of new shows that jumped the shark on their first episode. I didn’t stick around for the end of the show, and never watched them again.
Imagine over 3 years ago
Nope. I’m not looking.
rshive over 3 years ago
Integrity apparently comes cheap these days.
Jeffin Premium Member over 3 years ago
Unique!
i_am_the_jam over 3 years ago
No, jumping the shark is the point on a popular TV series where it starts going downhill.
PuppyPapa over 3 years ago
Wow, great strip today!!!
P51Strega over 3 years ago
Jumping the shark refers to a change or addition that changes the story and can’t be undone. When you jump on a shark, you can’t easily get back off (without it attacking you).
paullp Premium Member over 3 years ago
The meaning of the term may have changed or varied a little over the years, but the original meaning is as Lola explains it in panel 2. It comes from an episode of Happy Days where Fonzie — on a trip to California (with the Cunninghams, of course) — jumps over a shark-filled tank on water skis.
And yes, depending on the show and the nature of the “shark-jumping” event (not to mention the many opinions of the viewers), it may signal that the show is going downhill.
cknoblo Premium Member over 3 years ago
I remember a couple of new shows that jumped the shark on their first episode. I didn’t stick around for the end of the show, and never watched them again.
missymayfield Premium Member over 3 years ago
Todd Clark, thanks for the belly laugh!