The network confirmed on Wednesday that it had renewed “Days of Our Lives” through September 2014.

“We are thrilled to announce that ‘Days of our Lives’ is not going anywhere. It is NBC’s longest-running drama series by far and is one of the most historic brands in television,” Jennifer Salke, President of NBC Entertainment, said in a statement. “We commend Ken Corday and the entire creative team on continuing to keep the stories and characters fresh, exciting and relevant year after year.”

The news comes as the Salem-based drama celebrates its 12,000th episode this week, and the pickup is especially meaningful to Executive Producer Ken Corday, whose parents – Betty and Ted Corday – co-created the daytime drama.

“After so many years in the homes and hearts of our loyal fans, I’m both humbled and elated to say it’s 2013 and we’re still going strong,” the EP said in a statement. “I am equally proud that the sense of family which my mom and dad established in our show 48 years ago, is still what drives it today. As we celebrate our 12,000th episode with an amazing cast and great support from our network, we look forward to what’s yet to come!”

Next year will be the 48th anniversary of the soap.

“Days of Our Lives” airs Mondays at 1 ET/PT on NBC.