Longtime New York City TV anchor announces retirement after revealing Alzheimer’s diagnosis

Bill Ritter announced his retirement from WABC on June 13, 2026, after revealing early signs of Alzheimer's disease. Ritter has been a fixture on ABC's New York station, anchoring the main evening news since 2001. His decision marks the end of a long career as a familiar face to millions of New York City residents. Despite stepping down from anchoring duties, Ritter stated his intention to continue reporting on Alzheimer's disease, leveraging his personal experience to inform the public. This move signifies a personal challenge met with a commitment to public service through journalism, focusing on a critical health issue.