Jennifer Runyon, Star of 'Ghostbusters' and 'Charles In Charge,' Passes Away at 65

Hollywood has lost a familiar face from the golden era of '80s film and television, and adding another tearjerking layer to the tragic news are the heartfelt tributes from family and friends.

Fans who grew up watching "Ghostbusters" and classic sitcoms are now remembering Jennifer Runyon, whose life and career quietly touched generations before heartbreaking news of her death emerged.

A Familiar Face from the Golden Age of '80s Entertainment

Runyon built a career that many fans of vintage pop culture still fondly recall today. According to her IMDb page, the actress was born April 1, 1960, in Chicago, Illinois, and went on to appear in several beloved projects during the 1980s.

Her résumé included roles in "Ghostbusters" (1984), "Up the Creek" (1984), and the nostalgic holiday special "A Very Brady Christmas" (1988).

She also carved out a memorable place on television, becoming a familiar presence to viewers during the decade. One of Runyon's most recognizable TV roles came when she starred as Gwendolyn Pierce on the fan-favorite sitcom "Charles in Charge."

Her career also included appearances on series such as "Another World," "Quantum Leap," and "Murder, She Wrote," proving she could effortlessly move between comedy, drama, and soap opera storytelling.

Fans may especially remember her brief but unforgettable moment in "Ghostbusters" when Runyon appeared in the film's famous psychokinesis experiment scene, a quirky moment that still sparks recognition among longtime admirers of the 1984 blockbuster.

Life Beyond the Hollywood Spotlight

But life eventually pulled the actress away from the spotlight. In 1991, Runyon married Todd Corman, a collegiate basketball coach who also worked in film and television production between sports seasons.

As Variety reported, the couple later welcomed two children, son Wyatt and daughter Bayley. By the mid-2010s, Runyon had shifted priorities.

In 2014, she revealed she had become semi-retired from acting and was working as a teacher, stepping into a quieter chapter of life away from Hollywood's glare.

A Heartbreaking Announcement

Still, she never disappeared from the hearts of supporters who grew up with her work. That's why the news that surfaced over the weekend stunned many…

According to TMZ, Runyon died on March 6, 2026, at the age of 65. The heartbreaking announcement came from her family in a Facebook post. "This past Friday night our [sic] beloved Jennifer passed away," the message read. "It was a long and arduous journey that ended with her surrounded by her family."

The family continued with a tribute that painted a picture of the woman loved beyond her Hollywood roles. "She will always be remembered for her love of life and her devotion to her family and friends."

They ended the emotional message with a simple farewell: "I know from above she's looking down on all of us with her beautiful smile. Rest in peace our [sic] Jenn."

Although a specific cause of death has not been publicly disclosed, the statement suggests she had been facing a lengthy health battle.

A Friend's Emotional Farewell

The loss quickly prompted an outpouring of tributes from loved ones who remember the actress not only for her work but for her warmth. Among those sharing a heartfelt message was Runyon's friend, Actress Erin Murphy.

In a touching post shared on Facebook, Murphy wrote, "So sad to share that my friend Jennifer Runyon Corman has passed away after a brief battle with cancer. 💔."

She continued with a message reflecting their connection, "Some people you just know you'll be friends with before you even meet. She was a special lady." Murphy ended the tribute by sending love to the late actress's family.

A Daughter's Tearjerking Tribute

Yet perhaps the most emotional remembrance came from Runyon's daughter. In a deeply personal Instagram dedication that she shared on Instagram, Bayley posted a carousel of photographs celebrating her mom's life.

The images paint a vivid portrait of Runyon beyond the screen. Some show mother and daughter smiling together in mirror selfies and embarking on traveling adventures.

One image captures the two relaxing by an oceanfront pool beneath palm trees, gazing out at turquoise water. Another playful image shows Runyon sitting inside a freestanding bathtub flashing a peace sign, her trademark smile still shining.

Other photos reveal moments from everyday life: Runyon dancing joyfully at a celebration, posing during a desert adventure, and spending time with beloved family dogs during a hospital stay.

One particularly touching black-and-white photograph shows a younger Runyon holding her daughter in her arms, hinting at years of motherhood and memories.

Bayley's tribute also includes a short black-and-white video of the two singing along to No Doubt's "Just A Girl," laughing and acting silly together.

Alongside the photos and video, Bayley shared a caption that captured the depth of her grief:

"all of the best parts of me came from you. i would give anything for one more day together. the kindest most compassionate person i've ever known. my best friend. i wasn't ready for this [sic]."

Remembering the Legacy She Leaves Behind

For fans who remember Runyon from their TV screens decades ago, the tributes reveal a portrait that extends far beyond Hollywood.

She was not only an actress who appeared in some of the most recognizable entertainment projects of the 1980s; she was also a mother, wife, teacher, friend, and someone whose warmth clearly left a lasting mark on the people closest to her.

And judging by the flood of memories now surfacing online, "our Jenn," as her family called her, won't be forgotten anytime soon.

At this time, we wish to extend our most heartfelt condolences to Runyon's daughter, son, her husband, her entire family, loved ones, friends, community, fans, and all who knew and loved her as they mourn such a significant loss. We hope for their healing amid their time of grief. RIP, dear Runyon.