Bill Ritter Signs Off from WABC-TV Anchor Desk After Early-Stage Alzheimer’s Diagnosis

Bill Ritter, a longtime New York City television anchor, announced on Friday, June 12, 2026, that he is stepping away from the anchor desk after being diagnosed with early-stage Alzheimer’s disease. Ritter, 76, has served as the 6 p.m. anchor for ABC station WABC-TV since 2001 and said his final broadcast from the desk would be his last. During his farewell newscast, he told viewers that a series of tests led to the diagnosis and that treatment has helped slow the condition for now, though there is no cure and no guarantee of how it will progress.

Ritter said he plans to continue reporting whenever possible and hopes to use his platform to raise awareness about Alzheimer’s disease and other related conditions. He emphasized the impact the disease has on patients and families, including the financial burden of care and treatment. He also said the station wants to explore how the rising number of cases is affecting communities and what changes may be needed to better support those living with the illness.

The diagnosis is personal for Ritter, who said his father died of Alzheimer’s disease in 1998. That experience, he said, makes the issue especially meaningful to him as he begins this next chapter. Rather than fully leaving journalism, Ritter indicated he intends to remain involved in reporting and storytelling as much as his health allows, while also helping others affected by the disease.

WABC general manager Marilu Galvez described Ritter as a defining presence at the station and praised his long career and influence. Ritter joined WABC in 1998 after years in journalism that included work in print, such as at the Los Angeles Times, as well as local television in California and network roles at ABC News. He began anchoring WABC’s 11 p.m. newscast in 1999, took over the 6 p.m. newscast in 2001, and also anchored the 5 p.m. broadcast for several years.

In his final message to viewers from the anchor desk, Ritter said he would miss delivering the news and stressed his commitment to facts and truth. He thanked viewers for their trust and support over the years and ended with a message of health, peace, and mutual care.