With "Arrow," viewers have a unique opportunity of knowing how the show might jump the shark before the first episode has aired. Websites and articles often reveal when shows have jumped the shark, but rarely is there a chance to discuss the unfortunate event before the series premiere. By stating part of his plan for the show, "Arrow" executive producer Marc Guggenheim has given future fans of the show a heads-up as to when the show may begin a downward spiral.
What he said
Guggenheim told Blastr how he is not interested in having the major characters from the DC Universe appear on "Arrow." He explained how "Anyone who comes into his (Oliver Queen) world will be a supporting character. Those characters (Superman, Batman, Wonder Woman, and Green Lantern) aren't supporting characters. Those are leads." The goal is to establish Queen as the lead of the show so the creators do not want another character overpowering him.Typical view of jumping the shark
People think a show's jumped the shark when a specific, over-the-top event happens that changes the series, pushes fans away, and/or compromises the overall flow of storylines. Think about when Fox Mulder left "The X-Files" or when the four fugitives began working for a secret government organization on "The A-Team." There is a variant view to consider, though, which fits in perfectly on "Arrow."
Variant view
When a show's creator is forced to give into the will of the fans to keep them happy or has to give into the will of the network to bring in more viewers, a show has to jump the shark as the original vision is compromised. In the case of "Arrow," fans are going to want to see their favorite characters from the DC Universe on the show. Eventually, The CW is going to force Guggenheim's hand into including the major characters in an attempt to increase ratings or to prevent ratings from slipping. Due to Guggenheim's statements, we realize the moment Batman, Superman, or another major character appears is a shark jump for the show.The dangers for "Arrow"
By understanding when "Arrow" would be jumping the shark, fans are left with the worry after a major character has shown up. It can already be extrapolated that the appearance of a major character from the DC Universe is a shark jump so what would be the point in watching once a major character popped in for an adventure? Once the event has happened once, what would be the point in watching episodes which did not feature another major character? Guggenheim has set his vision, but has cursed the show if he is unable to stick to his vision.More from this contributor:
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