What does it mean when a TV show jumps the shark?

The term was coined to literally describe a scene inHappy Days(more on that later).

Its also generally a marking point when a show is no longer good.

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Image by Jefferson Chacon

Many shows have jumped the proverbial shark over the years, and the outcome hasnt always been the same.

Many shows ended right after their jump the shark moment.

A handful, however, stand out as being the worst of the worst.

Fonzie from Happy Days water skiing while wearing swim trunks and a black leather jacket.

Image via ABC

For these, theres one defining moment that made fans shake their heads in dismay.

But as is customary with any show, eventually, the writers ran out of ideas.

The story was starting to get stale and repetitive, and the show needed something to keep viewers interested.

Happy Days

They wanted to squeak every last season out of the concept.

Unfortunately, showrunners made the wrong decision, and the phrase jumping the shark was coined.

In the episode, fan favorite character Fonzie (Henry Winkler) is visiting Los Angeles.

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The stunt was reportedly incorporated so the actor could show off his skills.

Fans despised how it ended, many petitioning for an entire redo of the final season.

But her death was anti-climactic, making it seem all for not.

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He also oddly discusses the many (many) women he met and dated along the way.

This had fans excited for the final season and the big reveal.

So, whileThe Walking Deaddidjump the shark, it grabbed a lifeboat shortly thereafter.

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The season featuringJohn Lithgowas the antagonist, Arthur Mitchell/The Trinity Killer, was arguably impossible to beat.

But from there, the show didnt even come close again.

She goes on her own killing spree as retribution for wrongs that have been done to her.

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Butthe whole thing fell flat.It was a moment when fans were wary of the shows future.

But it quickly became fun and endearing, like a teen drama with a twist.

With every episode came new, even weirder moments.

Jon Snow holding Daenerys Targaryen, slumped over in his arms in a scene from Game of Thrones

Image via HBO

Fans wished it had gone on for five more seasons.

The premise was intriguing.

He doesnt reveal his motivation, however, nor the nature of his ties to one of the agents.

Game of Thrones Poster

Nine noble families fight for control over the lands of Westeros while an ancient enemy returns after being dormant for millennia.

But theres only so long he can keep this secret before fans grow tired.

As the show became more popular, more bizarre means were being employed to keep the mystery going.

They were crass, struggled with finances, and dealt with real troubles.

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Nothing that happened in season 9 really happened.

Effectively,an entire season was annulled from the show.

Dallasimpressively continued for five more seasons.

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But fans never forgave the moment, even though it remains one of the most shocking ever on television.

Its a story filled with betrayal, ambition, and the dark side of American wealth.

Dwight tearfully saying goodbye to Michael Scott as they look at one another on The Office.

Image via NBC

The Office Poster Michael Scott

A mockumentary on a group of typical office workers, where the workday consists of ego clashes, inappropriate behavior, and tedium.

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Robin, Lily, Marshall, Ted, & Barney dressed up in a hotel at Robin & Barney’s wedding on How I Met Your Mother

Image via CBS

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Negan holding out his bat to Glenn’s head on The Walking Dead.

Image via AMC

The Walking Dead Season 11 Poster

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Dexter holding on to Lumen who looks afraid on Dexter.

Image via Showtime

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The cast of Riverdale outside looking at something and smiling

Image via The CW

Riverdale Poster

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Co-workers looking somber, carrying Liz’s coffin out of a church on The Blacklist

Image via NBC

The blacklist TV Poster

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Jackie and Roseanne on a plane with a prince dressed to the nines in Roseanne.

Image via ABC

Roseanne TV Series Poster

A revival of the popular 1990s sitcom “Roseanne”, which centered on the everyday life of an American working-class family.

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Dallas TV Poster

Happy Days