Jennifer Runyon Cause of Death: Ghostbusters and Charles in Charge Actress Dies at 65 After Cancer Battle
Jennifer Runyon, the beloved actress known to millions for her memorable roles in Ghostbusters and Charles in Charge, has died. She was 65 years old. The news broke on March 8, 2026, sending waves of grief through the entertainment community.
Jennifer Runyon Cause of Death Confirmed as Cancer
A representative for Runyon confirmed she passed away after a six-month battle with cancer, stating she "felt loved and blessed by her family and friends" and "was beloved by countless people and will be missed."
The specific type of cancer Jennifer Runyon was diagnosed with has not been disclosed publicly at this time. Her family described the final chapter of her life with heavy hearts, calling it a long and difficult road.
Her family shared in a statement on social media that "this past Friday night our beloved Jennifer passed away, it was a long and arduous journey that ended with her surrounded by her family." The statement closed with a reminder that she will always be remembered for her love of life and devotion to family and friends.
Jennifer Runyon's Life, Career, and Legacy
Born April 1, 1960, in Chicago, Runyon married Todd Corman in 1991. The couple had two children, a son, Wyatt, and a daughter, Bayley.
Runyon famously portrayed a student receiving an ESP test by Peter Venkman, played by Bill Murray, in the 1984 blockbuster Ghostbusters. That same year, she worked on Up the Creek before starring as Gwendolyn Pierce on the sitcom Charles in Charge.
In the years following, she appeared in shows including Magnum P.I., Quantum Leap, Murder She Wrote, and Beverly Hills 90210. She also took over the role of Cindy Brady in the 1988 made-for-TV movie A Very Brady Christmas.
Tributes Pour In for Jennifer Runyon
Co-stars and colleagues were quick to honor Jennifer Runyon's memory after news of her cause of death spread across social media.
Scott Baio, who worked with Runyon on Charles in Charge, described her as "sweet, kind, and generous," while others remembered her as a talented actress and loving mother.
Charles in Charge co-star Willie Aames paid tribute, writing: "Jenn was more than a friend. She was my dear dear friend, muse, and encourager. We shared family Christmases together, vacations, weekends, lunches and dinners together." Aames added that watching her decline over her final months was one of the hardest experiences of his life.
A Ghostbusters fan group also offered tribute, writing that she was "incredibly kind, warm, and open to everyone she met" when they had the honor of meeting her in person.
Family Remembers Jennifer Runyon
Her brother David Runyon wrote on Facebook: "My beautiful sister Jennifer has joined the angels in Heaven. Always dedicated to her convictions, Jenn was a wonderful mother and talented actress who especially loved the beauty in nature. Her soft voice and sweet smile will remain with me forever."
Runyon is survived by her husband Todd Corman and their two children Wyatt, 32, and Bayley, 30. Jennifer Runyon's cause of death leaves behind a legacy that will endure through decades of beloved film and television performances.
