Bill Ritter is known for his work with WABC-TV, having a long history with various ABC News-affiliated programs. However, he recently shared that he is stepping down from his position after opening up about a recent health update. He also shared what’s next for him. Keep reading for more details on what he had to say.
Bill Ritter Has Worked With Several Programs, Including Eyewitness News, 20/20, & GMA
As a journalist, Ritter is known for his work with WABC-TV and Eyewitness News in New York City, starting in 1998. He initially anchored on weekends before succeeding Bill Beutel on the 11 PM news. In 2001, he then moved to the 6 PM slot.
In 1993, Ritter started his work at ABC News, serving as a co-anchor of Good Morning America Sunday. He is also known for his work with 20/20.
After three decades of anchoring Eyewitness News, Ritter has announced that he would step down from his post, following doctors’ diagnosis of him with Alzheimer’s disease. Ritter had made the announcement on-air during the June 12 broadcast.
At the time, Ritter shared that treatment had helped to keep his symptoms at bay. However, his long-term prognosis is questionable. During Eyewitness News‘ 5 PM broadcast, he shared, “Unless someone finds an amazing cure, and soon, tonight will be the last newscast I anchor.”
Stepping Down Doesn’t Quite Mean Retirement For The Journalist
According to The Bergen Record, Ritter’s move does not mark his retirement. He will remain on the Eyewitness News team. He will also help develop special reports on treatments for diseases, like Alzheimer’s. As Ritter shared, “This station wants to dig deeper into the rising tide of Alzheimer’s, and other similar diseases, including how it’s affecting patients and their families.”
Ritter continued, “I’m going to continue working. Right here. I will continue helping the younger journalists here at Eyewitness News. Hey, I’m now 76. So, for me, everyone in the newsroom is younger than I am.”
Describing his message as a “personal” message, Ritter also shared wanting to spend more time with his family. He shared that this is now more important than ever in light of his health issues.
According to the outlet, Marilu Galvez, the affiliate’s general manager, described Ritter as a “defining presence at ABC7.” Commending his work across the New York metro area newscasts, he was described as being marked by “exceptional insight, integrity, and, most of all… heart.”
On social media, one of Ritter’s latest posts was an interview with former NFL player and broadcaster Tim Green, who has been living with ALS. Taking to the comments, many fans recently took time to share their memories watching Ritter on his broadcasts. Some comments included:
- “@billritter7 – you will be missed as you always showed up with grace and dignity. Your reporting always felt sincere and heartfelt. I’m sending you prayers and well wishes as you take this fight head on… May your God continue to bless and protect you.”
- “We’ll miss you Bill. You were and are a NY institution.”
- “I knew you would be retiring soon after you announced you were taking a hiatus last year… I’m so heartbroken over this. You are affectionately known as ‘Uncle Bill’ in my household.”
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John Witiw has been a writer since at least 2015. He’s covered a variety of topics, especially when it comes to film and television.
