Bill Ritter, the veteran anchor of WABC-TV’s Eyewitness News, announced Friday that he has been diagnosed with early-stage Alzheimer’s disease. The 76-year-old journalist confirmed that his final broadcast as primary anchor would air that evening, concluding a distinguished career spanning more than two decades in New York City.
Ritter revealed that while current treatments are managing the condition, the lack of a definitive cure necessitates his departure from the daily desk. "Unless someone finds an amazing cure, and soon, tonight will be the last newscast I anchor," Ritter stated during the broadcast. He noted a personal connection to the disease, having lost his father to Alzheimer’s in 1998.
Despite stepping away from nightly anchoring, Ritter will remain with ABC7. His new role will focus on reporting about neurological conditions and providing resources for families impacted by Alzheimer’s. WABC-TV General Manager Marilu Galvez praised Ritter’s integrity and heart, affirming his continued value to the station’s journalistic family.