The recent hot expression "jump the shark" has become synonymous
for the moment at which something, mainly a television program,
goes into decline. Jon Hein coined the phrase based on an episode
of "Happy Days" in which the Fonz, one of TV's coolest characters,
water-skis over a tank filled with sharks (while clad in his
trademark leather jacket). This bright idea, ostensibly used to
draw more viewers, represented a downward spiral for "Happy Days,"
regardless of whatever wonderful values the show might have had
before or after.

The phrases became the basis for Hein's Website on which he and his
readers choose the moment at which various TV shows "jumped." Like
death and taxes, it is an inevitable fate.

According to Hein, the use of certain programming gimmicks are sure
signs that the show is in trouble. Some examples of "shark bait"
include a young character hitting puberty ("The Wonder Years"); the
introduction of a new actor (usually a cute kid) to stimulate new
interest; replacing an actor in an established role (Darren Stevens
in "Bewitched" and Lionel Jefferson in "The Jeffersons"); or
advertising a "very special episode."

Among the programs cited in JUMP THE SHARK are such cult classics
as "Gilligan's Island," "The Mary Tyler Moore Show," "I Love Lucy,"
and "Happy Days" as well as more recent favorites like "Dallas,"
"ER," "Friends," and "Law and Order." But Hein takes the easy way
out when he mixes these with shows that were never that good to
begin with: It is sacrilege to cast "Different Strokes" in the same
light as "The Dick Van Dyke Show."

To appreciate JUMP THE SHARK, readers really have to be up on their
TV trivia. Hein constantly refers to specifics in the shows that
only the most ardent couch potato would catch. For example, he
wonders why, on "Gilligan's Island," "Lovey and Mr. Magoo had all
those different outfits packed for a three-hour tour." Unless
readers know that Jim Backus, who played the role of Thurston
Howell III, was also the voice of the cartoon Magoo they just won't
get it.

While television is his forte, Hein expands his shark hunt into
other entertainment forms, such as pop music, actors, and sports.
He also offers his unique interpretation of politicians and
political situations. Some of his selections lend themselves to
this kind of recognition while others do not. While most of his
remarks are obviously tongue in cheek, he seems to be reaching a
bit at times with these non-TV aspects.

Ultimately, JUMP THE SHARK is an enjoyable and "lite" analysis of
the medium upon which we've become so dependent. Those who enjoy
the book should definitely take a trip to the Website, where they
can exchange their opinions with fellow boob tube
enthusiasts.