Full Breakdown
Remembering Jennifer Runyon: A Tribute to the Beloved Actress
3/9/2026, 2:02:55 AM
Jennifer Runyon's Passing
Jennifer Runyon, an actress renowned for her roles in the 1984 blockbuster "Ghostbusters" and the CBS sitcom "Charles in Charge," passed away on March 6, 2026, at the age of 65. Her family confirmed her death through a heartfelt Facebook post, stating, "This past Friday night our beloved Jennifer passed away. It was a long and arduous journey that ended with her surrounded by her family." The cause of her death was reported to be cancer, following a brief battle with the illness, as noted by her close friend, actress Erin Murphy.
Career Highlights
Runyon's career began in 1980 with her debut in the slasher film "To All a Good Night." She gained significant recognition in 1984 when she appeared in "Ghostbusters," portraying a female student in a memorable ESP experiment scene conducted by Bill Murray's character, Peter Venkman. That same year, she starred as Gwendolyn Pierce in "Charles in Charge," a role that established her as a familiar face in television during the 1980s. Additionally, she played Cindy Brady in the 1988 television film "A Very Brady Christmas," further solidifying her place in pop culture.
Throughout her career, Runyon appeared in various films and television series, including "Up the Creek," "The In Crowd," and guest roles on shows like "Murder, She Wrote," "Quantum Leap," and "Beverly Hills, 90210." Despite stepping back from regular acting in the early 1990s, she made occasional returns to the screen, including roles in indie horror films in the mid-2010s.
Personal Life
Born on April 1, 1960, in Chicago, Illinois, Runyon was the daughter of radio announcer Jim Runyon and actress Jane Roberts. In 1991, she married Todd Corman, a collegiate basketball coach, and they had two children, Wyatt and Bayley. In later years, Runyon transitioned to a quieter life, working as a teacher and hosting a cooking podcast, as she mentioned in a 2014 interview.
Tributes and Remembrance
Erin Murphy expressed her sorrow on social media, 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." The family tribute emphasized her love for life and devotion to family and friends, concluding with, "Rest in peace, our Jenn."
Runyon's passing has prompted an outpouring of condolences from fans and colleagues alike, reflecting on her contributions to film and television during the 1980s and 1990s. Her legacy as a beloved actress will be remembered by many who cherished her work.
Conclusion
Jennifer Runyon's death marks the loss of a talented performer who left a significant mark on the entertainment industry. Her roles in "Ghostbusters" and "Charles in Charge" remain iconic, and her warm spirit will be missed by those who knew her and admired her work.
