Jim Parsons explains why The Big Bang Theory is finally ending after 12 seasons, even if they can still easily go up for more outings. Debuting in 2007, the sitcom revolving around a group of friends living in Pasadena - most of which are academically gifted - has become the fan-favorite of many. It's just been voted as the most-loved TV show across all ages, proof of its multi-generational appeal. That's why a lot was surprised when CBS announced that its current season will be its last barely a month before it premiered.

Not only were fans frustrated about the news, but even the cast and other people involved in the series were also saddened by the unexpected development. Season 12 debuted with the promise that it'll all lead up to a satisfying conclusion for the beloved sitcom. Now, the show's main cast opens up about the nearing end of The Big Bang Theory including Parsons who is set to say goodbye to his character, Sheldon Cooper once the show wraps up.

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Speaking with EW as he, and co-stars Kaley Cuoco (Penny) and Johnny Galecki (Leonard Hofstadter) appear on the cover of the magazine's latest issue, Parsons offers an explanation why The Big Bang Theory is ending its run after 12 seasons despite its popularity. The actor admits that they can go on and move forward with more seasons, but he argues that at this point, it feels like they've basically covered everything they needed to in the sitcom.

"There's no negative reason to stop doing Big Bang. It's both as complex and as simple as that it just felt innately that it was time. We've gotten do so many things you know? And I think we could keep telling stories but it doesn't have that, it feels like we've really gotten to chew all the meat off this bone, as it were."

Parsons' reported reluctance to return for more The Big Bang Theory is said to be the main reason why CBS ultimately decided to end the show despite initially wanting to renew it for at least another year. This is despite the potential massive paycheck that he and his six other co-stars could earn if the show continued. While some may claim that it could go on without Parsons, loyal fans of the series will argue otherwise as despite the fact that there are seven main players in the series, Sheldon is still the focal point of the show. Most of the narrative centers on him and even if he's relegated to a supporting role at times, he manages to still be a scene-stealer. The show without him would just feel wrong.

Sheldon's popularity is evidenced by CBS launching a The Big Bang Theory spinoff in Young Sheldon (the two shows recently held a special crossover episode) which centers around the boy genius' early years growing up in Texas. The offshoot is also racking up great viewership ratings for the network and is something that the channel could build on to continue capitalizing on the popularity of the franchise long after the original series has gone off the air. But for now, fans still have 13 more episodes to look forward to before the gang in Pasadena officially says goodbye.

More: Big Bang Theory Reveals The Sad Reason Leonard No Longer Wants Kids

Source: EW