Actress Jennifer Runyon, known for 'Ghostbusters,' dies at 65

Runyon's friend and fellow actress Erin Murphy confirmed her passing on Instagram.

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

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Actress Jennifer Runyon, known for her roles in the films 'Ghostbusters' and 'Charles in Charge,' has died at the age of 65. Runyon's passing was confirmed by her friend and fellow actress Erin Murphy on Instagram, who said Runyon had been battling cancer. Runyon was married to collegiate basketball coach Todd Corman, and the couple had two children, including daughter Bayley who is also an actress.

Why it matters

Runyon was a prolific actress who appeared in numerous popular TV shows and films throughout the 1980s and 1990s, making her a recognizable face to many viewers. Her death at a relatively young age is being mourned by her former co-stars and colleagues, highlighting the impact she had on the entertainment industry.

The details

Runyon's first acting credit came in the 1980 slasher film 'To All a Goodnight.' She went on to appear in a variety of TV shows and movies, including 'Up the Creek,' 'Charles in Charge,' 'Magnum, P.I.,' 'Who's the Boss?,' 'A Very Brady Christmas,' 'Beverly Hills, 90210,' and most notably, 'Ghostbusters' as an ESP test subject for Dr. Peter Venkman, played by Bill Murray.

  • Runyon passed away on March 6, 2026.
  • Runyon's death was confirmed in an Instagram post by her friend Erin Murphy on Sunday, March 9, 2026.

The players

Jennifer Runyon

An actress and producer known for her roles in 'Ghostbusters' and 'Charles in Charge.' She was married to collegiate basketball coach Todd Corman and had two children, including actress Bayley Corman.

Erin Murphy

An actress who played Tabitha in the TV series 'Bewitched' and was a friend of Jennifer Runyon.

Todd Corman

Jennifer Runyon's husband, a collegiate basketball coach.

Bayley Corman

Jennifer Runyon's daughter, who is also an actress, appearing in shows like 'Chilling Adventures of Sabrina,' '9-1-1,' and 'Jane the Virgin.'

Willie Aames

Runyon's co-star from the TV series 'Charles in Charge,' where he played Buddy Lembeck.

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What they’re saying

“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. My thoughts are with your family and beautiful children.”

— Erin Murphy, Actress (Instagram)

“All of the best parts of me came from you. I would give anything for one more day together.”

— Bayley Corman (Instagram)

“Jenn was more than a friend. She was my dear dear friend, muse, and encourager. We shared family Christmas[es] together, vacations, weekends, lunches and dinners together… We did shows together, but most of all — we LAUGHED. That was Jenn — even up until her last weeks. Jenn: You were my rock. Watching you slip away these last few months was one of the hardest times of my life… I can still hear your voice so clearly. No one will ever be able to fill the massive hole that's been left in our hearts… ever. I know what you would want most is for us to live as you and our dear Todd lived. With kindness. Your marriage was an inspiration to us.”

— Willie Aames, Actor (Facebook)

The takeaway

Runyon's passing at a relatively young age is a tragic loss for the entertainment industry, as she was a talented and beloved actress who left an indelible mark through her memorable roles. Her former co-stars and friends have paid heartfelt tributes, highlighting the impact she had on those around her both professionally and personally.