Jennifer Runyon, Icon of ‘Ghostbusters,’ Dies at 65 After Cancer

Jennifer Runyon, the beloved actress known for her roles in Ghostbusters and Charles in Charge, passed away on March 6, 2026, at the age of 65 following a battle with cancer. The news was confirmed by her family and friends through a social media post on March 8, where they expressed their deep sorrow over her passing.

A Life Remembered

Runyon’s family shared their heartfelt message stating, “This past Friday, our beloved Jennifer passed away. It was a long and arduous journey that ended with her surrounded by her family. She will always be remembered for her love of life and her devotion to her family and friends. Rest in peace our Jenn.” Although the specific type of cancer was not disclosed, her friend and fellow actress Erin Murphy, known for her role in Bewitched, revealed that Runyon had undergone a brief struggle with the illness.

Murphy expressed her grief in a post, stating, “So sad to share that my friend Jennifer Runyon Corman has passed away after a brief battle with cancer. Some people you just know you’ll be friends with before you even meet. She was a special lady. I’ll miss you Jenn. My thoughts are with your family and beautiful children.”

Career Highlights

Born on April 1, 1960, in Chicago, Illinois, Runyon emerged from a family with a strong background in entertainment; her father, Jim Runyon, was a well-known radio personality. She later married Todd Corman, a collegiate basketball coach and film industry professional, with whom she had two children, Wyatt and Bayley Corman.

Runyon’s acting career began to flourish in the 1980s, especially with her memorable role in the 1984 blockbuster Ghostbusters. In this iconic film, she played a college student participating in an ESP experiment conducted by Bill Murray’s character. That same year, she appeared in the teen comedy Up the Creek and gained further recognition for her portrayal of Cindy Brady in the 1988 television movie A Very Brady Christmas.

In addition to her film roles, Runyon became widely recognized for her character Gwendolyn Pierce in the sitcom Charles in Charge, a fan favorite during its run in the 1980s. She also appeared in the daytime soap opera Another World and made guest appearances on various popular shows such as Quantum Leap, Murder, She Wrote, Magnum, P.I., and Beverly Hills, 90210.

As her career evolved, Runyon gradually stepped back from the Hollywood spotlight. In a 2014 interview, she noted that she was semi-retired from acting and had transitioned into teaching and co-hosting a cooking podcast. Despite her departure from the industry, she remained a cherished figure among fans of classic 1980s film and television.

Jennifer Runyon’s legacy is marked not only by her contributions to cinema and television but also by the warmth she brought to her personal relationships. Friends and family remember her as a vibrant and caring individual who touched the lives of many. Her passing leaves a significant void in the hearts of those who admired her work and cherished her friendship.