Bill Ritter's Retirement Announcement: A Tribute to a Beloved WABC Anchor
Beloved WABC anchor Bill Ritter is preparing to reveal his retirement due to Alzheimer's disease during Friday evening's broadcast. The 76-year-old newsman has been a fixture at WABC since June 1998 and took a step back from the 11 p.m. broadcast in March 2025 after 25 years on the nightly news desk. It remains uncertain if Ritter will disclose his Alzheimer's diagnosis on air. Colleagues describe him as a dedicated and respected journalist who actively contributes to improving the newscast. Ritter is praised for setting a high standard as a New York City anchor and has been a significant presence on the 6 p.m. broadcast alongside Liz Cho.
Ritter's tenure at WABC began in 1998, taking over the 11 p.m. news slot from Bill Beutel in 1999. His dedication to journalism and commitment to delivering quality news content have earned him admiration from colleagues and viewers alike. Despite facing health challenges, Ritter's professionalism and passion for his work have remained unwavering. His contributions to the field of journalism and his impact on the New York City news landscape are significant and enduring.
As Ritter prepares to announce his retirement, his legacy as a respected journalist and anchor at WABC will be celebrated and remembered. His dedication to delivering news with integrity and professionalism has left a lasting impression on his colleagues and viewers. Ritter's presence on the 6 p.m. broadcast with Liz Cho has been a cornerstone of WABC's news programming, and his contributions to the field of journalism will be remembered for years to come.