Bill Ritter said Friday that he is stepping away from the anchor desk at WABC-TV after being diagnosed with early-stage Alzheimer’s disease [1].

As a prominent face of ABC7 Eyewitness News in New York City, Ritter's departure marks the end of a long tenure for one of the city's most recognizable broadcast journalists. His public disclosure brings attention to the challenges of early-onset cognitive decline among high-profile professionals.

Ritter has been a fixture of New York City news for decades. While reports on his exact start date vary, some sources said he has been a news anchor in the city since 1998 [1], while others indicate he joined WABC-TV in 1999 [6]. He eventually became the anchor for the 6 p.m. newscast, a role he held starting as early as 1998 [1], though some records suggest this transition occurred in 2001 [4].

The announcement was made via ABC News Live, where the veteran journalist shared the news of his health struggle. Ritter is leaving the desk to manage the effects of the early-stage Alzheimer’s disease [1], [3].

Alzheimer's is a progressive disease that destroys memory, and other important mental functions. By stepping down now, Ritter is prioritizing his health and family over his professional obligations at the station. The transition comes after years of service to the New York metropolitan area, where he reported on major city events and political developments.

WABC-TV has not yet announced who will succeed Ritter at the 6 p.m. anchor desk. The station's Eyewitness News team is one of the most watched local news operations in the U.S.

“Bill Ritter announced Friday that he is stepping away from the anchor desk”

Ritter's decision to go public with an Alzheimer's diagnosis highlights the increasing visibility of cognitive health issues in the workplace. By stepping down from a high-pressure role in live broadcasting, he underscores the necessity of professional transitions when managing progressive neurological diseases, potentially reducing the stigma for other public figures facing similar health crises.