'Desperate Housewives' will end in 2012.

The drama series - created by Marc Cherry and starring Teri Hatcher and Eva Longoria - will come to an end next May after the "victory lap" of a final eighth season.

ABC President Paul Lee said: "It's an iconic show and we're extremely proud of it. I just wanted to make sure it had its victory lap."

Marc admitted the cast - which also includes Felicity Huffman and Marcia Cross - were shocked when they heard he and Paul had taken the decision to end the show.

He said: "There was a touch of shock. I've spoken to over half of them.

"It was bittersweet and lovely, because the women knew there was the possibility ... They said some very lovely things to me about how I've changed their lives and careers. I truly, truly love every one of them. They fill me up with such emotion inside; I love my cast. [They're] people who are smart enough to be grateful."

After taking the decision to end the programme, Marc admits he considered a spin-off, but decided to go out on a high instead.

Speaking at the Television Critics Association summer press tour in Beverly Hills, he said: "The truth is I sort of thought about [a spin-off] a little bit, but as a writer ... I don't want repeat things I've done.

"I wanted to go out when the network still saw us as a viable show and a force to contend with. We felt from a creative standpoint that this was the right time. I feel so good about it."

Following the announcement, Eva later took to her twitter page to pay tribute to 'Desperate Housewives' and thank fans for their support.

She wrote: "It's confirmed! We are filming our last season of Desperate Housewives! I am so grateful for what the show has given...

"Wow! thank u everyone for your beautiful comments! We have such amazing fans! Watch this final season, it is going to be the best one!!(sic)"