Ghostbusters actress Jennifer Runyon dies at 65 after long health battle

American actress Jennifer Runyon, known for her roles in the classic film Ghostbusters and the popular sitcom Charles in Charge, has died at the age of 65 following a lengthy health battle, her family has confirmed.

Actress Jennifer Runyon was reportedly battling cancer before her death.

According to the actress’s family, Runyon passed away on Friday night surrounded by loved ones after what they described as a long and difficult health struggle.

 

In a message shared on Facebook, her family said she would always be remembered for her love of life and deep devotion to family and friends.

Born in April 1960 in Chicago, Runyon began her acting career in 1980 with a role in the slasher film To All a Goodnight.

She quickly became a familiar face in Hollywood during the 1980s, appearing in a variety of television shows and films.

 

Her breakthrough year came in 1984 when she appeared in the blockbuster supernatural comedy Ghostbusters.

Although her role as a nervous student taking part in an ESP experiment was brief, the memorable scene earned her lasting recognition among fans of the film.

That same year, Runyon joined the cast of Charles in Charge, where she played Gwendolyn Pierce opposite actor Scott Baio.

 

The role helped establish her as a recognizable television personality during the era.

Throughout the 1980s, Runyon continued to build a diverse career with appearances in films such as Up the Creek, The In Crowd, A Man Called Sarge, and the cult sci-fi horror movie Carnosaur.

 

On television, she showcased her versatility with roles in several well-known series including Another World, Magnum, P.I., Quantum Leap, Murder, She Wrote and Beverly Hills, 90210.

In 1988, she also portrayed Cindy Brady in the television movie A Very Brady Christmas, stepping into the iconic role for the special.

 

Runyon stepped back from regular acting work in the early 1990s but occasionally returned to the screen later in life, appearing in projects such as Silent Night, Bloody Night 2: Revival and Terror Tales.

Off screen, she lived a quieter life in Southern California with her husband, basketball coach Todd Corman.

The couple raised two children while largely staying out of the Hollywood spotlight.