Bill Kurtis, the veteran broadcaster known for his distinctive deep voice, is retiring from NPR's popular quiz show 'Wait Wait... Don't Tell Me!' after serving as judge and scorekeeper since 2014. The 85-year-old former CBS anchor announced his departure in a statement to NPR staff, calling his dozen years on the irreverent news quiz show an 'incredible chapter' in his life.

Kurtis brought his signature gravitas and wit to the program, delivering memorable weekly introductions that poked fun at his own voice. His clever lines included 'I'm the voice so creamy, you better take some Lactaid' and 'I'm the voice so rich, it makes you sign a prenup.' The show's host Peter Sagal expressed disbelief that a newsman of Kurtis's stature would 'stoop to doing our silly little show,' but praised his perfect blend of seriousness and humor.

Kurtis's final episode will air on May 23, marking the end of an era for the weekly program that began in 1998. The show, which tests contestants' knowledge of current events through lighthearted segments, will continue with a new scorekeeper. Kurtis's departure leaves only host Peter Sagal from the original lineup, as the show's first scorekeeper Carl Kasell passed away in 2018.