Bill Ritter, a 76-year-old New York City television news anchor, announced his retirement on June 12 after disclosing he has early-stage Alzheimer's disease during his final 6 p.m. newscast on WABC-TV [1, 2, 3]. Ritter had anchored WABC's evening news since 2001 and joined the station in 1998, initially anchoring the 11 p.m. newscast starting in 1999 and also hosting the 5 p.m. broadcast for several years [1, 2, 3].

In his announcement, Ritter shared that his doctors informed him that while treatments are presently keeping the disease at bay, there is no cure or guarantee, reflecting the challenges faced by many patients with the illness [1, 2, 3]. He said, "After a series of tests, my doctors have told me I have Alzheimer's. It's early-stage Alzheimer's, and they say the treatments I'm getting are keeping it at bay, for now. But there is no guarantee, because there's no cure yet for Alzheimer's" [2]. He added, "So, unless someone finds an amazing cure, and soon, tonight will be the last newscast I anchor" [3].

Ritter expressed sadness about stepping away from the anchor desk but emphasized his commitment to truth and factual reporting: "I am going to so miss reporting the news to all of you, with the truth and with facts, no matter where they fall. It has been my honor to do just that. But for now, I wish you health and peace and let’s take care of each other" [1].

WABC-TV General Manager Marilu Galvez praised Ritter's long career, saying, "For decades, Bill Ritter has covered and led New Yorkers through the stories that matter most. A defining presence at ABC7, he has done so with exceptional insight, integrity and, most of all, heart, earning the love and respect of viewers and colleagues alike" [2].

The station announced Ritter will continue working in a new role reporting on Alzheimer's and neurological diseases, focusing on their impact and available resources [1, 2, 3].

Ritter’s personal connection to Alzheimer's is deep. His father died in 1998 after battling the disease for years, the same year Bill joined WABC-TV [1, 2, 3]. Approximately 7 million Americans currently live with Alzheimer’s disease, highlighting the importance of awareness and research [1].

New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani offered public support, saying, "For decades, Bill Ritter has been a trusted presence in New Yorkers' homes, helping us make sense of the news that shape our city. His courage in sharing his Alzheimer’s diagnosis is an inspiration" [3].