‘Mad Men’ final season, 14 episodes, to air in 2 parts in 2014, 2015

“Mad Men” fans will have a bit longer to say goodbye to Don Draper.

Following a trend set at AMC by “Breaking Bad,” the seventh and final season of “Mad Men” will air in two, seven-episode halves, the network announced Tuesday. The first half of the season, dubbed “The Beginning,” will air in spring 2014. The second, “The End of an Era,” will air in spring 2015.

“This approach has worked well for many programs across multiple networks, and, most recently for us with ‘Breaking Bad,’ which attracted nearly double the number of viewers to its second-half premiere than had watched any previous episode,” said AMC President Charlie Collier. “We are determined to bring ‘Mad Men’ a similar showcase.”

BUZZMETER: Emmy 2013 pundit’s picks

Series creator and showrunner Matthew Weiner expressed enthusiasm about the storytelling potential of the two-part final season.

“We plan to take advantage of this chance to have a more elaborate story told in two parts, which can resonate a little bit longer in the minds of our audience,” he said. “The writers, cast and other artists welcome this unique manner of ending this unique experience.”

“Mad Men” debuted in 2007 and has since become one of television’s most acclaimed programs, winning the Emmy for outstanding drama series four straight times. It is nominated for 12 prizes at this year’s ceremony.

ALSO:

‘Mad Men’: Linda Cardellini talks Don Draper, secrets and frosting

Emmys 2013: Buzzmeter panel talks ‘Mad Men’ actors who should win

With finale in sight, ‘Breaking Bad’ hits all-time ratings record

Twitter: @MeredithBlake