NYC Anchor Bill Ritter Retires After Alzheimer’s Diagnosis

Longtime New York television anchor Bill Ritter announced on Friday, June 12, that he is stepping away from the anchor desk after being diagnosed with early-stage Alzheimer's disease. Ritter, 76, revealed the diagnosis during his final broadcast of the 6 p.m. Eyewitness News on WABC-TV, a position he has held since 2001.

Ritter told viewers that after a series of tests, his doctors informed him he has Alzheimer's. He described it as early stage, with current treatments keeping it at bay for now, but noted there is no guarantee and no cure. He said that unless a miraculous cure is found soon, Friday's broadcast would be his last as an anchor. The decision, he explained, was driven by a desire to prioritize his health and family, including spending more time with his grandchildren.

He will remain with WABC in a new role. Ritter stated he will continue as a journalist for Eyewitness News, appearing on air and online, and will focus on in-depth reporting about Alzheimer's disease and similar conditions. He plans to cover how these diseases affect patients and families, the high costs of treatment and care, and potential societal changes to address the crisis. Ritter has a personal...