Bill Ritter is opening up about his private health battle.
A well-known news reporter announced that he has Alzheimer’s disease and will be leaving his job at Eyewitness News.
Oh my gosh, I was absolutely devastated watching the news last night! John Ritter, my absolute hero, shared that he’s been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. He was on ABC 7 NY, and he said the doctors caught it early – they’re calling it ‘early stage.’ It just broke my heart, but he also said the treatments he’s getting are helping, keeping things stable for now, which is… well, it’s something, isn’t it? I’m just sending all my love and hoping for the best. He’s such a legend, and I can’t even imagine him going through this, but I’m so glad he’s getting help!
He explained that there’s no certainty about the future, as there’s currently no cure for Alzheimer’s. Unless a breakthrough cure is discovered quickly, tonight would be his final broadcast as an anchor.
Ritter, who is married to Kathleen Friery and has three children, explained that his diagnosis has made spending time with his family an even greater priority, as his life has changed significantly.
He isn’t retiring completely, though. The 76-year-old, who has been with WABC since 1998, will stay on to help train and guide the next group of journalists at the station.
I’ll continue working as a journalist at Eyewitness News, so you’ll still see me on television and online. The station is committed to covering the increasing impact of Alzheimer’s and related illnesses, and that’s a big reason why I’m staying.
Even before learning he had the condition – a progressive illness that destroys brain cells, according to the Mayo Clinic – Ritter felt a strong connection to it personally.
He shared that Alzheimer’s is a personal battle for him, as his father passed away from the disease in June 1998. Since then, he’s been dedicated to raising awareness and finding a cure, and he plans to keep fighting.
Watching Michael Ritter stand up for what he believes in – both for himself and for others – has been truly inspiring. He recently shared how grateful he is to WABC for showing him such kindness, compassion, and genuine support during a really tough time. And beyond that, he made sure to thank his family and friends; it’s clear they mean the world to him.
My children tell me I’m being courageous through everything that’s happening, but I disagree. They—and my wife, Kathleen—are the truly brave ones.
He said he’ll really miss sharing the news with everyone, always striving to be truthful and report the facts, wherever they led. He considered it a privilege and wished everyone good health and peace, encouraging them to look out for one another.
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2026-06-13 17:47