Bill Ritter, a name synonymous with New York City news, has announced his retirement from WABC-TV after a diagnosis of early-stage Alzheimer’s disease. The 76-year-old veteran, who has been a staple in New York households since 1998, made the emotional announcement during the Eyewitness News at 6 broadcast on Friday evening.
Ritter’s journey in broadcasting began long before his tenure at WABC-TV. With stints at the Los Angeles Times and local television stations in California under his belt, he joined WABC-TV in 1998. He quickly became a familiar face, taking over the 11 p.m. newscast in 1999 and adding the flagship 6 p.m. broadcast in 2001. His dedication and integrity earned him the respect of viewers and colleagues alike.
An Emotional Farewell
During his final broadcast, Ritter shared his diagnosis with a heavy heart but a resolute spirit. “After a series of tests, my doctors have told me I have Alzheimer’s,” he revealed. He emphasized that while current treatments are helping to slow the progression of the disease, there is still no cure. Ritter’s father also battled Alzheimer’s, passing away in June 1998, making this diagnosis deeply personal.
Ritter’s farewell message was a poignant reflection on his career and the relationships he has built over the years. He expressed his gratitude to his colleagues, highlighting his 25-and-a-half-year partnership with producer Zahir Sachedina. “I believe we are the longest-running, behind-the-scenes newscast team ever,” Ritter said, noting the unique dynamic of a Muslim producer and a Jewish anchor working together for so long.
A New Mission
Despite stepping away from daily anchoring duties, Ritter is not retiring from journalism. He plans to remain at WABC-TV in a new role focused on reporting about Alzheimer’s disease and other neurological conditions. His mission is to investigate the impact of these diseases on patients, caregivers, and families, as well as the affordability of treatment and care.
“This station wants to dig deeper into the rising tide of Alzheimer’s,” Ritter stated, emphasizing the need for change. He also expressed his intent to continue mentoring younger journalists in the newsroom. “I will continue helping the younger journalists here at Eyewitness News,” he said, adding with a touch of humor, “Hey, I’m now 76. So, for me, everyone in the newsroom is younger than I am.”
Colleagues and Viewers React
The news of Ritter’s diagnosis and retirement sent shockwaves through the New York broadcasting community. Colleagues and viewers alike took to social media to express their support and admiration. WABC-TV General Manager Marilu Galvez praised Ritter’s decades of service, calling him a defining presence at the station. She highlighted his exceptional insight, integrity, and heart, which earned him the love and respect of viewers and colleagues alike.
New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani also responded to Ritter’s announcement, wishing him and his family strength in the days ahead. “For decades, Bill Ritter has been a trusted presence in New Yorkers’ homes,” Mamdani wrote, acknowledging Ritter’s courage in sharing his diagnosis. Colleagues like Lucy Yang and Lee Goldberg also paid tribute to Ritter’s professionalism and dedication, expressing their admiration and support.
As Bill Ritter embarks on this new chapter, his legacy as a broadcasting legend and his commitment to raising awareness about Alzheimer’s disease will continue to inspire. His story is a reminder of the resilience of the human spirit and the power of turning personal challenges into a mission for awareness and change.
