Actress Jennifer Runyon, Star of "Ghostbusters" and "Charles in Charge," Dies at 65

Remembering Jennifer Runyon: A Life of Love and Legacy

Actress Jennifer Runyon, known for her roles in the iconic film Ghostbusters and the CBS sitcom Charles in Charge, has passed away at the age of 65. Her death marks the end of a career that spanned decades and left a lasting impact on both the entertainment industry and those who knew her personally.

Runyon’s friend and fellow actress Erin Murphy, best known for her role in Bewitched, shared news of her passing on social media. Murphy described Runyon as having "a brief battle with cancer," highlighting the strength and resilience she showed during her final days. This sentiment was echoed by Runyon’s family, who confirmed her death in a heartfelt post on social media.

"This past Friday [March 6], our beloved Jennifer passed away. It was a long and arduous journey that ended with her surrounded by her family," the post read. "She will always be remembered for her love of life and her devotion to her family and friends. Rest in peace our Jenn."

Murphy also took to Facebook to share her grief, reflecting on the deep bond she had with Runyon. "Some 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," she wrote.

Early Life and Career Highlights

Born on April 1, 1960, in Chicago, Runyon began her career in the entertainment industry in the early 1980s. She made her feature film debut in the 1980 slasher movie To All a Good Night. However, it was her role in the 1984 comedy Ghostbusters that brought her widespread recognition. In the film, she portrayed a student undergoing a paranormal assessment alongside Bill Murray and Steven Tash in one of the movie’s most memorable scenes.

In addition to her work in film, Runyon appeared in the 1984 sitcom Charles in Charge, where she played a supporting role. Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, she continued to build her acting portfolio, taking on various roles in television and film. Notably, she took over the role of Cindy Brady from Susan Olsen in A Very Brady Christmas and appeared in shows such as The Fall Guy, Boone, The Master, and Quantum Leap.

Runyon also made guest appearances on popular series like Murder, She Wrote, A Man Called Sarge, and Beverly Hills, 90210, further cementing her presence in the entertainment world.

A Life Beyond the Spotlight

Despite her success in the entertainment industry, Runyon remained grounded and focused on her personal life. She married collegiate basketball coach Todd Corman, and together they welcomed two children: a son named Wyatt and a daughter named Bayley.

In 2014, Runyon shared that she had stepped back from acting to focus on teaching, according to Variety. This transition reflected her dedication to education and her desire to inspire future generations.

Her daughter, Bayley, an actress who has appeared in episodes of 9-1-1, Chilling Adventures of Sabrina, and Jane the Virgin, paid tribute to her mother on Instagram. "All of the best parts of me came from you. I would give anything for one more day together," she wrote. "The kindest, most compassionate person I’ve ever known. My best friend. I wasn’t ready for this."

A Lasting Legacy

Jennifer Runyon’s passing leaves a void in the hearts of those who knew her and in the world of entertainment. Her contributions to film and television, combined with her kindness and dedication to her family, have created a legacy that will endure.

As fans and colleagues remember her, they celebrate not only her professional achievements but also the warmth and compassion she brought to every relationship she formed. Her story is one of resilience, love, and a life well-lived.