'Bones' series to end in 2017

Get ready to say goodbye to Bones.

But it won't happen right away: The long-running Fox crime drama will return in 2016-17 for its farewell season, consisting of 12 episodes.

When Bones concludes its 12th and final season, the show will have completed 246 original episodes, making it one of the longest running Fox series, according to the network.

Star Emily Deschanel, who plays forensic anthropologist Brennan, tweeted her appreciation for everyone on the crew as well as her co-stars.

Deschanel's character is married to Booth, played by David Boreanaz. Both actors are producers on the series. Their co-stars in the series about an FBI-Jefferson Institute team include Michaela Conlin, Tamara Taylor, TJ Thyne and John Boyd. Working from human remains, the Bones team members work on solving crimes, sometimes putting their own lives in danger.

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"In times like these, marked by instability and doubt, it’s comforting to know the world can count on at least one dependable beacon of stability. Apparently, that beacon is Bones," creator and executive producer Hart Hanson said in a statement. "It just shows what you can do with an amalgam of genius cast, amazing crew, cunning writers, stalwart studio, sweat, a tough economy, a mercurial network, determination, luck, magic, miracles and the most loyal audience in the world."

Bones returns to complete Season 11 on April 14, 8 p.m. ET/PT.