Jennifer Runyon Dies at 65. The beloved Ghostbusters and TV actress is remembered for her 1980s roles and warm personality. Read her legacy.
Actress Jennifer Runyon, remembered for her appearances in popular 1980s films and television shows, has died at the age of 65. The performer, who appeared in the comedy classic Ghostbusters and the sitcom Charles in Charge, passed away on March 6 following a brief battle with cancer.
News of her death was confirmed by longtime friend and fellow actress Erin Murphy, who shared a heartfelt tribute on social media. In her message, Murphy described Runyon as a warm and special person whose kindness made lasting impressions on those around her.
She wrote that some friendships feel destined even before the first meeting, adding that Runyon’s presence would be deeply missed. Murphy also expressed sympathy for the actress’s family and children.
A Familiar Face in 1980s Film and Television
Runyon built a steady acting career during the 1980s, appearing in both films and television projects that became staples of the era.
Her feature film debut came in 1980 with the slasher film To All a Good Night. The role opened the door to further opportunities in Hollywood.
By 1984, Runyon appeared in two widely recognized comedies released the same year. She had a supporting role in Up the Creek and also appeared in the blockbuster supernatural comedy Ghostbusters, a film that went on to become one of the defining pop-culture hits of the decade.
While these film appearances introduced her to wider audiences, television soon became another important part of her career.
Breakout Role on a Popular Sitcom
Runyon’s most prominent television role came in 1984 when she joined the first season of Charles in Charge. She played Gwendolyn Pierce, a central character during the show’s early run.
The sitcom followed a college student hired as a live-in caretaker for a busy household, and it quickly developed a loyal audience during its broadcast years.
Runyon later returned to the beloved The Brady Bunch universe in the 1988 television movie A Very Brady Christmas, where she portrayed Cindy Brady as an adult.
A Career Across Television and Comedy
Beyond those roles, Runyon continued appearing in a range of film and television productions throughout the decade.
She starred in the 1988 comedy 18 Again! and took on the lead role in the film The In Crowd. She was also involved in the early stages of the science-fiction series Quantum Leap, appearing in its pilot episode.
Television viewers also saw her in guest roles on several well-known shows, including Murder, She Wrote, A Man Called Sarge, and Beverly Hills, 90210.
Early Life and Family
Runyon was born on April 1, 1960, in Chicago. Entertainment ran in the family.
Her father, Jim Runyon, worked as a radio announcer and disc jockey, while her mother, Jane Roberts, was also involved in acting.
In 1991, Runyon married Todd Corman, a collegiate basketball coach who later worked in film and television production during sports off-seasons. Together, they raised two children, a son named Wyatt and a daughter named Bayley.
Life Beyond the Screen
After decades in the entertainment industry, Runyon gradually stepped away from acting. In 2014, she revealed that she had entered semi-retirement and was pursuing a new path as a teacher.
Those close to her say that the shift reflected her desire to live a quieter life focused on family and community.
Tributes shared after her death highlighted her warmth, generosity, and strong devotion to loved ones.
In Murphy’s farewell message, she described Runyon as someone who loved life deeply and cared profoundly for family and friends. She concluded the tribute with a hopeful thought: that Runyon would be remembered for her bright spirit and the smile that touched so many.
