Cousin Oliver is a jargon used by TV critics when the creators of a television show decide that the addition of a cute child to the cast will improve the ratings of the show, or as a replacement for child cast members that have grown up since the show started.

Origin

Cousin Oliver (Robbie Rist) was a character who was introduced in The Brady Bunch. Cousin Oliver wasn't popular, and is considered by many the moment when The Brady Bunch jumped the shark.

Shows that have also suffered from the Cousin Oliver Syndrome:

• Family Ties (introduction of Andy Keaton)
• Growing Pains (introduction of Chrissy Seaver)
• Married... with Children (introduction of Seven)
• Scooby-Doo (introduction of Scrappy Doo)
• The Cosby Show (introduction of Olivia)
• Who's the Boss (introduction of Billy)
• My Three Sons (introduction of Dodie)
• Diff'rent Strokes (introduction of Sam)

See also

• Jumping the shark
• Chuck Cunningham syndrome