Ghostbusters Actress Jennifer Runyon Dies at 65

Remembering a familiar face from classic 1980s film and television

Actress Jennifer Runyon, known for her roles in the 1980s film Ghostbusters and the television sitcom Charles in Charge, has died at the age of 65. News of her passing was confirmed by family members, who shared that she died on March 6, 2026, surrounded by loved ones.

Her death has prompted an outpouring of tributes from fans and colleagues who remember her for her warmth, talent, and memorable appearances in several well-known film and television productions.

Credit : Albert L. Ortega/Getty

A career that began in the early 1980s

Jennifer Runyon began her acting career in the late 1970s and early 1980s. One of her earliest roles came in the 1980 horror film To All a Good Night, which helped introduce her to audiences and opened the door to additional acting opportunities.

She gained wider recognition when she appeared in the 1984 comedy classic Ghostbusters. In the film, Runyon played a college student who participates in a humorous extrasensory perception experiment conducted by the character portrayed by Bill Murray.

Although the role was brief, the scene became one of the memorable moments in the film and helped establish her presence in popular culture during that era.

Television success and popular roles

Jennifer Runyon also built a strong presence on television during the 1980s. One of her most recognizable roles was on the sitcom Charles in Charge, where she portrayed the character Gwendolyn Pierce during the show’s early episodes.

In addition, she appeared in the television movie A Very Brady Christmas, where she played Cindy Brady. The project reunited many members of the original Brady Bunch cast and introduced Runyon to a new generation of viewers.

Throughout the decade, Runyon also appeared in guest roles on several well-known television series, including Quantum Leap, Murder, She Wrote, and Magnum P.I. These appearances helped make her a familiar face on television screens during the 1980s and early 1990s.

Credit: Columbia Pictures / courtesy Everett Collection

A life focused on family

After years working in television and film, Jennifer Runyon gradually stepped away from the entertainment industry to focus on her personal life and family.

She later worked in education and other fields while maintaining connections with friends and colleagues from the acting community.

Runyon was married to basketball coach Todd Corman, and the couple had two children together. Friends often described her as a devoted mother who valued family life and close relationships above public attention.

Tributes from friends and fans

Following the news of her passing, many people who had worked with Runyon shared messages remembering her kindness and positive spirit.

Fans also expressed appreciation for the roles she played in films and television shows that remain popular decades later.

For many viewers who grew up watching entertainment in the 1980s, Jennifer Runyon’s performances continue to evoke a sense of nostalgia.

Credit: GP/Star Max/GC Images

A lasting place in entertainment history

Although Jennifer Runyon did not pursue a long-term career in Hollywood, her appearances in several well-known productions helped secure her place in the history of classic 1980s entertainment.

Her roles in Ghostbusters, Charles in Charge, and other television series ensured that audiences would continue to recognize her work long after those projects first aired.

Conclusion

Jennifer Runyon’s passing marks the loss of an actress who contributed to some of the most recognizable television and film projects of the 1980s. Through her performances, she left a lasting impression on audiences and colleagues alike.

As fans remember her career and legacy, many continue to celebrate the charm and warmth she brought to the screen.