Ghostbusters’ Actress Jennifer Runyon Passes Away at 65

Born on April 1, 1960, in Chicago, Illinois, Runyon grew up in a family rooted in broadcasting and entertainment.

Her father, Jim Runyon, was a well‑known radio announcer and disc jockey, and her mother, Jane Roberts, was also involved in acting.

Runyon’s first on‑screen role came at the start of the 1980s, and she quickly began building a steady career in film and television.

She made her feature‑film debut in the 1980 slasher To All a Goodnight, marking her first step into Hollywood.

Her breakthrough came in 1984, when she appeared in Columbia Pictures’ blockbuster Ghostbusters, one of the most iconic comedies in cinema history.

In the classic film, she played a college student being tested for psychic ability in a humorous scene with Bill Murray’s character, Dr. Peter Venkman.

Although her role in Ghostbusters was small, it became one of her most remembered performances because of the film’s enduring popularity.

That same year, Runyon also appeared in the comedy Up the Creek, further showcasing her versatility in film.

1984 proved pivotal for her career, as it also brought one of her most recognizable television roles.

On the CBS sitcom Charles in Charge, Runyon played Gwendolyn Pierce, the girlfriend of Scott Baio’s title character Charles.

Her portrayal of Gwendolyn made her a familiar face to TV audiences and helped solidify her place in 1980s sitcom history.

She appeared in the first season of the show, which debuted in 1984, and returned later for special appearances.

Runyon continued to build her television resume with guest roles on several popular series of the 1980s and early 1990s.

Her credits included memorable appearances on shows like Quantum Leap, Murder, She Wrote, and Magnum, P.I..

In 1988, she had a notable role as Cindy Brady in the television film A Very Brady Christmas, reprising an iconic character from The Brady Bunch.

Runyon also appeared in movies such as The In Crowd, the comedy 18 Again!, and made multiple guest appearances on other hit TV shows.

Her wide range of roles over the years demonstrated both comedic talent and dramatic presence.

Despite her success, Runyon also spoke candidly about her own shyness early in life and how acting helped her grow as a person.

She later said that her move into entertainment allowed her to gain confidence and connect with audiences in meaningful ways.

Beyond her entertainment work, Runyon’s life was deeply shaped by her family and personal relationships.

In 1991, she married Todd Corman, a college basketball coach and film and television production professional.

The couple shared a long and loving marriage over several decades, supporting each other through life’s joys and challenges.

Together they raised two children: a son named Wyatt and a daughter named Bayley.

Runyon took a step back from acting in the later years of her career to focus on her family and personal interests.

Her daughter Bayley followed a creative path and appeared on several television programs, carrying forward the family’s artistic legacy.