Longtime ABC7 New York anchor Bill Ritter announced on live television that he has been diagnosed with early-stage Alzheimer’s disease, marking the end of his regular anchoring duties. At 76, Ritter shared the news during a Friday broadcast of 'Eyewitness News,' emphasizing the lack of a cure and the uncertainty ahead, while also expressing gratitude for current treatments slowing the progression. He will remain at ABC7 to support younger journalists and lead coverage on Alzheimer’s and related healthcare challenges.

Ritter, who joined the station in 1998 and became a trusted voice in New York media, said his wife and children have shown more bravery than he has in facing the diagnosis. He revealed he began noticing memory lapses two years prior, initially attributing them to a demanding schedule, but testing confirmed the condition. His father also died from Alzheimer’s in 1998, a connection that deepened his personal and professional commitment to advocacy.

Moving forward, Ritter plans to use his platform to examine the rising impact of Alzheimer’s, including treatment affordability and family care burdens. He urged others experiencing memory issues to seek medical evaluation early, calling it a crucial step many avoid. His final on-air message centered on truth, care, and community — values he upheld throughout his decades in journalism.