The original characters from season 1 ofThe Walking Deadare dropping like flies.

But there is one O.G.

(as the original cast members often refer to themselves) who has no plans to leave anytime soon.

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Gene Page/AMC

I love being on the show, says Reedus when asked if he has contemplated departing.

I could do this until it ended.

Theres part of me that really wants to bookend the show.

I started the show and I want to end the show.

(That sound you hear is Reedus Nation collectively exhaling in relief.)

Youve seen my hair on my chin turning gray!

Ive never done a job like this where the fans are watching this character grow in real time.

You very rarely get an opportunity to do that.

Im still loving it.

And fans no doubt love hearing it.

The Walking Deadreturns on Feb. 25 on AMC.