Long term ABC7 New York Anchor Bill Ritter has revealed that he has Alzheimer’s disease and explained why he is leaving the anchor desk after decades of being one of the most recognizable faces on television.
Ritter, who has hosted the 6 p.m. show since 2001, announced that Friday’s show will be his last at WABC-TV.
“Unless someone finds a miraculous cure, very soon tonight (Friday) will be the last news show I host,” Ritter said.
Ritter shared the diagnosis with viewers in a heartfelt statement that received an outpouring of support from colleagues, journalists and longtime viewers.
Bill Ritter reveals health battle
Ritter revealed that he was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s diseasea progressive neurological disorder that affects memory, thinking, and behavior.
“This is ‘early stage’ Alzheimer’s and they say the treatment I’m receiving has it under control for now. But there’s no guarantee as there is no cure for Alzheimer’s yet,” Ritters delivered an emotional message to viewers during his final broadcast.
According to the Alzheimer’s Association, more than 7 million Americans currently have Alzheimer’s disease, making it the most common form of dementia in the United States.
Ritter said the diagnosis influenced his choice to minimize his on-air duties.
In his speech, Ritter reflected on his broadcasting career and thanked the audience for welcoming him into their homes. He said the decision to leave was not easy, but he believed now was the right time to prioritize his health and family.
“It’s not going to be easy for all of you, our viewers, and the people I work with, like Zahir Sachedina, who I’ve worked with for 25 and a half years, our producers and my friend,” he said.
Ritter confirmed that he will continue to work behind the scenes in his new role at ABC. “I will also continue to be a reporter for Eyewitness News, so you will still see me on air and online,” he said.
He went on to explain why, saying, “Because this station wants to take a deeper look at the rise of Alzheimer’s and other similar diseases, including how it affects patients and their families, how treatment costs and care are simply unaffordable, and how this country can begin to change that.”
Colleagues praised Ritter for his honesty and professionalism. Several at ABC7 described him as a mentor and trusted voice in New York journalism.
“For decades, Bill Ritter has reported on and brought New Yorkers to the stories that mattered most,” said WABC-TV General Manager Marilu Galvez. “He was a defining figure at ABC7, earning the love and respect of his viewers and colleagues by doing it with extraordinary insight, integrity and, most importantly, heart.”
Beloved ABC New York anchor Bill Ritter
Ritter joined WABC-TV in the late 1990s and became one of the station’s best-known anchors. Throughout his tenure, he covered major national and local events, including elections, natural disasters, terrorist attacks and community stories that shaped New York City.
His calm delivery and steady presence have won him a loyal audience for generations.
The news sparked furious reactions online. Many viewers expressed their gratitude for his years of service.
Users on X wrote“Bill Ritter (@billritter7) is just top-notch. All New Yorkers are lucky to see him on the air. The cure can’t come fast enough.”
