Blue Bloods will end with Season 14. The first half of the final season will begin in February, with Season Two coming later this year. While the finale has yet to be written, the series promises to “end on a high note.” Star Tom Selleck released a touching statement to fans as the series comes to an end.

“For the past 13 years, it has been an honor and a privilege to work on a show that not only celebrates the men and women who protect and serve in New York City, but also demonstrates the importance of family,” he said. “Working with these incredible actors, writers, producers, directors and crew has been a dream come true, and I am so grateful to have been a part of this incredible group for over 275 episodes. Thank you to CBS Studios and CBS Network for their unwavering support, and a heartfelt thank you to the fans who have gathered with us for dinner every Friday night.”

Now, the stars are set to wrap up the CBS drama. We asked the big questions, and Selleck answered.

How do you feel about the end of Blue Bloods?

Tom Selleck: CBS is going to see a lot of people who aren’t ready to say goodbye to the show. The show is more popular than ever, and I think [the number] will increase with interest this year. We’re definitely not running out of ideas.

So you’re not ready to retire to your Ventura, California ranch?

I don’t count the days until I can do something else. I love this job. Sometimes the hours are a little tougher because I’m older, but so what? I want to work as long as they want me.

Is Frank ready to retire?

He’s been fighting because he wants someone to take this responsibility [off] him and fire him. But he’s got an over-the-top sense of responsibility and he’s stuck with it.

What are you most proud of about Blue Bloods?

Playing a flawed but strong father. On television and in commercials, Dad is often a jerk. That’s not my job on the show, but the byproduct is being an example of a father who is important to his family. That’s becoming rare in our culture.

How important are the weekly Reagan family dinners to the success of the show?

That’s the part that audiences love the most. When I saw the eight-page dinner scene in [executive producer] Leonard Goldberg’s pilot script, I said, “They’re going to cut that, right?” And he said, “No, that’s going to be the heart of the show.” He was right.