“The Big Bang Theory” Ending After Season 12

Johnny Galecki and Jim Parsons in "The Big Bang Theory"

The upcoming season 12 of The Big Bang Theory will also be its last. The future seemed bright for TBBT a few months ago, since it looked like this CBS’ comedy will stay on screen for the foreseeable future. But, as it turns out, the end was nearer than we thought.

“We are forever grateful to our fans for their support of The Big Bang Theory during the past twelve seasons. We, along with the cast, writers, and crew, are extremely appreciative of the show’s success and aim to deliver a final season, and the series finale, that will bring The Big Bang Theory to an epic creative close,” said Warner Bros. Television and Chuck Lorre Productions in a joint statement.

The news comes just weeks after CBS Entertainment president Kelly Kahl confirmed that there were preliminary talks with the cast for season 13 and beyond. The things obviously changed really fast.

“The Big Bang Theory has been the defining comedy of its generation,”- said Kahl in a statement on Wednesday. “All of us at the network take exceptional pride in this series that uniquely combines creative genius, commercial rating success, cultural influence, and characters who became so popular, they are easily known by just one name. We’re incredibly grateful for our partnership with Warner Bros., Chuck Lorre Productions and a brilliant cast and crew that has made such a ‘big bang’ and lasting legacy on the television landscape.”

Despite entering its twelfth season, The Big Bang Theory continues to be a big rating success for CBS. It was the TV’s No. 1 comedy until the 2017-18 season when ABC’s Roseanne revival took over the lead.

Season 12 of The Big Bang Theory is set to premiere on Monday, September 24. The finale will air in May 2019, with what will be the sitcom’s 279th episode.