Bill Ritter’s Emotional Farewell: Veteran ABC Anchor Reveals Alzheimer’s Diagnosis and Steps Away from the News Desk
For more than two decades, viewers in New York welcomed Bill Ritter into their homes each evening as one of the trusted faces of local television news. On June 12, however, the veteran broadcaster delivered a deeply personal announcement that left many viewers stunned and emotional.
During a live broadcast of Eyewitness News, Ritter revealed that he has been diagnosed with early stage Alzheimer’s disease and would be stepping away from his role as anchor after decades behind the desk. The announcement marked the end of an era for one of New York’s most respected journalists.
A Difficult Decision After Decades on Air
Ritter, 76, shared that he had already beg.un reducing his workload after turning 75. He previously stepped away from anchoring WABC’s 11 p.m. and 5 p.m. newscasts, hoping to spend more time with his growing family. Becoming a grandfather and anticipating the arrival of another grandchild later this year made family life even more meaningful.
But as Ritter explained, another reason soon emerged.
Following a series of medical tests, doctors informed him that he had Alzheimer’s disease. While the condition is currently considered early stage and treatments have helped manage symptoms, Ritter acknowledged the uncertainty that comes with a disease that still has no cure.
The diagnosis ultimately led him to make one of the most difficult decisions of his career: stepping away from daily anchoring duties.
A Career Built on Trust and Integrity
Ritter’s departure carries special significance for New York viewers because of the role he has played in local journalism for nearly three decades.
After joining WABC TV in 1998, Ritter quickly became a familiar presence on the station’s flagship broadcasts. He took over the 11 p.m. newscast in 1999 and began anchoring the station’s 6 p.m. broadcast in 2001, helping guide aud1ences through major local, national, and global events.
Known for his calm delivery and commitment to factual reporting, Ritter earned a reputation as one of the city’s most trusted news anchors. Colleagues have frequently described him as a mentor and a journalist whose professionalism set a standard throughout the newsroom.
As he signed off from the anchor desk, Ritter reflected on the responsibility he has carried throughout his career, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to deliver news “with the truth and with facts” to generations of viewers.
A Personal Connection to Alzheimer’s
Ritter’s b4ttle with Alzheimer’s is especially personal.
During his announcement, he revealed that his father d1ed from the disease in 1998. That experience motivated him to become involved in Alzheimer’s awareness efforts long before receiving his own diagnosis.
Now, he hopes to use his platform to bring greater attention to the challenges faced by patients and caregivers.
Rather than completely retiring from journalism, Ritter plans to remain involved with WABC, contributing reports and helping younger journalists develop their careers. He also intends to focus on reporting about Alzheimer’s disease, including its impact on families, the challenges of caregiving, and the rising costs of treatment.
An Outpouring of Support
Following the announcement, Ritter received widespread support from colleagues, viewers, and members of the journalism community.
Many praised his openness about the diagnosis, noting that public discussions about Alzheimer’s can help reduce stigma and encourage others facing similar challenges. Health advocates also highlighted the importance of sharing stories about early stage Alzheimer’s, pointing out that many individuals can continue leading active and meaningful lives after diagnosis.
For viewers who have watched Ritter for years, the farewell was emotional not only because of his diagnosis but because it marked the end of a remarkable chapter in New York television history.
Looking Ahead
Although Bill Ritter is leaving the anchor desk, he made it clear that he is not disappearing entirely.
Instead, he hopes to continue doing what he has always done best: telling important stories and helping people better understand the world around them.
His final message reflected the same warmth and humanity that defined his career. After decades of reporting the news, Ritter thanked viewers for allowing him into their lives and offered a simple wish in return: health, peace, and kindness toward one another.
For many New Yorkers, it was a goodbye they never expected—and one they won’t soon forget.
