Veteran News Anchor Bill Ritter Diagnosed with Early Alzheimer’s Disease
Bill Ritter, a well-known news anchor in New York, shared on Friday that he has been diagnosed with early-stage Alzheimer’s disease. This announcement marks the end of his over two-decade career at WABC-TV.
At 76 years old, Ritter has been the anchor for the 6 p.m. newscast since 2001. During the Eyewitness News broadcast on Friday, he stated this would be his final appearance on the show.
“After a series of tests, the doctors told me I had Alzheimer’s disease,” Ritter shared on-air. He added, “It’s early stage Alzheimer’s, and so far, the treatment I’m receiving has kept it in check. However, there are no guarantees since there is still no cure for Alzheimer’s.”
He expressed that, unless there’s some miraculous cure discovered, his time anchoring the news is drawing to a close.
Reportedly, Ritter began his journey with WABC-TV in 1998, following a comprehensive journalistic career that included roles at the Los Angeles Times and various local TV networks in California, along with ABC News. He started anchoring the 11 p.m. newscast in 1999 and joined the flagship 6 p.m. broadcast in 2001, also covering the 5 p.m. news for several years.
Even after stepping back from his daily anchoring role, Ritter will transition to a new position focusing on reporting about Alzheimer’s and other neurological diseases, aiming to raise awareness about their impact on patients and their families.
WABC-TV General Manager Maril Galvez commented on Ritter’s impact, stating, “Bill has covered the most important stories and guided New Yorkers for decades. He has worked with extraordinary insight, integrity, and, above all, heart, earning the love and respect of viewers and colleagues alike.”
She emphasized that he will continue to be a vital part of the ABC7 family, providing insights into the ongoing journey of living with Alzheimer’s and sharing valuable resources for those affected by the disease.
Ritter reflected on a personal connection to Alzheimer’s, mentioning that his father passed away from the disease in 1998 after a long struggle with it.
