Ghostbusters ‘Charles In Charge’ Star Jennifer Runyon Dead At 65

‘Ghostbusters,’ ‘Charles in Charge’ Star Jennifer Runyon Dead At 65 Beloved American actress Jennifer Runyon, known for her roles in the iconic 1984 supernatural comedy Ghostbusters and the sitcom Charles in Charge, has died at the age of 65, her family and industry sources confirm. Runyon passed away on March 6, 2026, following a brief battle with cancer, according to statements from family members and tributes shared by close friends and co‑stars Jennifer Runyon made her feature film debut in the 1980 horror To All a Good Night before rising to wider recognition in the 1984 blockbuster Ghostbusters, where she appeared as a female student undergoing a paranormal test in one of the film’s memorable opening scenes.

That same year, she landed a beloved television role as Gwendolyn Pierce on the family sitcom Charles in Charge, starring opposite Scott Baio. Her character became a fan favourite during the show’s early seasons. Runyon also appeared in several other films and television series throughout the 1980s and early 1990s, including Up the Creek, A Very Brady Christmas (as Cindy Brady), Quantum Leap, Murder, She Wrote, Another World, and Beverly Hills, 90210. According to her official biography, she was born on April 1, 1960, in Chicago, Illinois, and began acting in both film and television during the 1980s. By the mid‑2010s Runyon had stepped back from acting, focusing on other pursuits, including teaching Former Charles in Charge co‑star Scott Baio paid tribute to Runyon on social media, describing her as a “sweet, kind, and generous” colleague and friend, and expressed his condolences to her family. Actress Erin Murphy, known for her role on Bewitched, also shared heartfelt memories of Runyon, noting their deep friendship and Runyon’s warm personality. Runyon is survived by her husband, Todd Corman, and their two children, Wyatt and Bayley. Bayley Corman posted a tribute describing her mother as her “best friend” and praising her compassionate spirit.

Jennifer Runyon’s career spanned film, television, and guest appearances that helped define entertainment in the 1980s and beyond. Fans remember her for both her memorable performances and her thoughtful, genuine presence off‑screen. Her passing at 65 marks a significant loss for classic Hollywood and television audiences worldwide.