Jennifer Runyon, ‘Ghostbusters’ and ‘Charles in Charge’ Actress, Dies at 65

Jennifer Runyon, known for her roles in “Ghostbusters” and the sitcom “Charles in Charge,” died Friday, March 6, 2026, after battling cancer. She was 65 years vintage.

Runyon’s death was confirmed Sunday by her friend, actor Erin Murphy, who played Tabitha Stephens in the television sitcom Bewitched.

A Career Spanning Several Decades

Runyon began her career in the 1980s, appearing in the slasher film “To All a Goodnight” and the soap opera “Another World.” She gained wider recognition in 1984 with roles in both “Ghostbusters” and “Up the Creek.” In “Ghostbusters,” she portrayed a female student undergoing a paranormal assessment by Peter Venkman (Bill Murray). She also played Gwendolyn Pierce in the first season of “Charles in Charge.”

In 1988, Runyon took over the role of Cindy Brady in “A Highly Brady Christmas,” reuniting the iconic television family for a holiday special.

Battling Cancer

According to Hindustan Times, Runyon had been battling cancer. Erin Murphy described it as “a long and arduous journey.” Fox News reported that she fought the disease for six months.

Remembered by Friends and Family

Erin Murphy shared her sadness on social media, stating, “So sad to share that my friend Jennifer Runyon Corman has passed away after a brief battle with cancer. Some people you just know you’ll be friends with before you even meet. She was a special lady. I’ll miss you Jenn.”

Cousins Daria Demkovich and Melania Pesick Charleston also expressed their grief on Facebook, noting the unexpected nature of her passing and emphasizing the importance of staying connected with loved ones.

Later Life and Legacy

Born April 1, 1960, in Chicago, Illinois, Runyon married Todd Corman in 1991. The couple had two children, Wyatt and Bayley. She semi-retired from acting in 2014 and began working as a teacher, according to Deadline.

Jennifer Runyon’s contributions to 1980s and 90s television and film will be remembered fondly by fans.