The entertainment industry is mourning the loss of actress Jennifer Runyon, best known for her roles in the classic film Ghostbusters and the television sitcom Charles in Charge. Runyon passed away at the age of 65, leaving behind a legacy of memorable performances across film and television during the 1980s and 1990s.
Family Confirms Jennifer Runyon’s Passing
Jennifer Runyon’s family announced her death through a social media statement on Sunday, March 8, as reported by ABC7 Los Angeles.
According to the message, Runyon passed away on Friday, March 6, following a long and difficult health journey. She was surrounded by loved ones at the time of her passing.
The statement described her as someone who deeply cherished life and maintained strong devotion to her family and friends. Her family remembered her fondly and honored her memory with heartfelt words, noting that she will always be remembered for her warmth and love.
Friend Erin Murphy Reveals Cause of Death
Actress Erin Murphy, known for her role in Bewitched, also shared the news of Runyon’s passing in a Facebook tribute on Saturday, March 7.
Murphy revealed that Runyon had been battling cancer for a short period before her death. In her tribute, she described Runyon as a special person whose friendship felt natural even before they met.
Murphy expressed sympathy for Runyon’s family and children, writing that she would deeply miss her longtime friend.
Early Life and Family
Jennifer Runyon was born in Chicago on April 1, 1960. Later in life, she married Todd Corman, a collegiate basketball coach.
Together, the couple raised two children:
- Wyatt Corman (son)
- Bayley Corman (daughter)
Runyon maintained a close bond with her family throughout her life, and her children were a central part of her world.
Tribute from Daughter Bayley Corman
Runyon’s daughter Bayley Corman, who is also an actress, shared a moving tribute to her mother on Instagram.
Bayley wrote that many of the qualities she values in herself came directly from her mother. She described Runyon as the most compassionate and kind person she had ever known, calling her not only a parent but also her best friend.
Bayley also expressed how difficult the loss was, saying she wished for just one more day with her mother.
Bayley has appeared in several television productions, including episodes of:
- 9-1-1
- Chilling Adventures of Sabrina
- Jane the Virgin
Jennifer Runyon’s Acting Career
Film Debut and Early Roles
Jennifer Runyon began her film career in 1980 when she appeared in the slasher movie To All a Good Night. This marked the start of a career that would see her become a familiar face in both film and television during the following decades.
Breakthrough in Ghostbusters
Runyon gained widespread recognition for her role in the 1984 supernatural comedy Ghostbusters. In the film, she portrayed a college student undergoing a paranormal test in a memorable classroom scene alongside Bill Murray and Steven Tash.
The movie later became one of the most iconic comedy films of the decade.
Other Notable Film Roles
In addition to Ghostbusters, Runyon appeared in several other films during the 1980s, including:
- Up the Creek (1984)
These performances helped establish her presence in Hollywood during that era.
Television Success in the 1980s and 1990s
Charles in Charge
Runyon also played a role in the 1984 CBS sitcom Charles in Charge, further boosting her television career.
Other Television Appearances
Throughout the late 1980s and 1990s, she appeared in a variety of popular TV shows and films. Some of her notable appearances include:
- A Very Brady Christmas — where she took over the role of Cindy Brady from Susan Olsen
- The Fall Guy
- Boone
- The Master
- Quantum Leap
She also made guest appearances in several well-known series such as:
- Murder, She Wrote
- A Man Called Sarge
- Beverly Hills, 90210
Life After Acting
In 2014, Runyon revealed that she had stepped back from acting and considered herself semi-retired from the entertainment industry.
According to Variety, she shifted her focus toward teaching, pursuing a quieter life away from Hollywood while continuing to support her family.
Conclusion
Jennifer Runyon’s passing marks the loss of a talented actress who contributed to some of the most recognizable film and television productions of the 1980s and 1990s.
From her memorable appearance in Ghostbusters to her role in Charles in Charge, she built a career that left a lasting impression on audiences.
Beyond her professional achievements, Runyon was remembered by friends and family as a compassionate, loving person devoted to those closest to her. Her legacy lives on through her work and the memories shared by those who knew and admired her.
FAQs
Who was Jennifer Runyon?
Jennifer Runyon was an American actress known for her roles in the 1984 film Ghostbusters and the CBS sitcom Charles in Charge.
How old was Jennifer Runyon when she died?
She passed away at the age of 65.
Did Jennifer Runyon have children?
Yes. She had two children with her husband Todd Corman: Wyatt Corman and Bayley Corman.