Supernatural Boss Declares, "Jensen's Returning!"

That ominous, season-ending image of Dean chained above Hell's fiery pits inexplicably understandably has Supernatural fans on edge. Here's just a sampling of what was waiting for me in my Ask Ausiello mailbag when I returned from vacation yesterday:
" "Has Jensen Ackles left Supernatural?" Jessica
" "I heard a rumor that Jensen Ackles is leaving Supernatural? Is this true?" Theresa
" "It's official: I'm a nervous wreck after watching the Supernatural finale! I just can't believe what happened to my dear Dean! He can't be dead. Not Dean!" Silke
" "If Jensen Ackles is leaving Supernatural, the show just lost me as a viewer." Clara
Relax, Clara. And Silke. And Theresa. And Jessica. And all you other Supe Nazis freaking out over Dean's fate. Sam's brother half is here to stay. How do I know this? Well, for starters, he's the star of the freakin' show! Also, series creator Eric Kripke just told me so via this exclusive statement:
"Jensen is 100% returning to the show and is as integral to Supernatural as he has ever been."
There you have it. End of story. You guys feel better now? Any other burning questions you have for Kripke about the finale? Post 'em below and I'll do my best to get them answered in time for next week's AA.
In other news, did you miss me?!?
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" Mega Minute Finale Scoop on Grey's, Supernatural and More