Actress Jennifer Runyon Passed Away After 6 Month Battle With Cancer

Jennifer Runyon scene in "Ghostbusters" 1984

It was reported on March 8, 2026, that actress Jennifer Runyon, famously known for her short stint with Bill Murray in a 4-minute clip from “Ghostbusters,” which has been heralded as a unique horror-comedy movie, has passed away at age 65. This comes after a 6-month-long battle with cancer. The news was initially shared by her family in a post made to Facebook.

A Daughter’s Tribute

Her daughter, Bayley, who was inspired by her mother, took to social media. She shared a touching tribute, showing the world the bond they had through a series of photos and a video of the two goofing around, quoted as saying,

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

Runyon’s passing was shared on her social media to family and friends, stating,

This past Friday our beloved Jennifer passed away, it was a long and arduous journey that ended with her surrounded by her family. She will always be remembered for her love of life and her devotion to her family and friends. Rest in peace our Jenn.

An Underrated Actress

Runyon made her big-screen debut in 1980 in a film many might not remember. Most recall her from “Charles In Charge” and “Ghostbusters” respectively, but her first introduction to the silver screen was a not-so-well-known movie, “To All A Good Night,” which also happened to be the director’s debut. This American thriller was filmed in the span of 10 days, where the cast and crew slept at the mansion during the entire shooting for the movie. Sadly, at the time, it was not well received by critics.

Another little-known movie by the name of “Carnosaur,” with Runyon starring as Ann Thrush alongside notable Diane Ladd as Dr. Jane Tiptree, done in 1993 was yet another American horror film. The movie, based on Brosnan’s 1991 novel, was afforded a decent budget for the time of $850,000. This movie sadly also did not achieve critical acclaim, with its successor, “Carnosaur 2,” being considered an improvement.

Iconic Moment of Movie History

YouTube video
Scene from “Ghostbusters” Peter Venkman’s ESP Test. Courtesy of “Ghostbusters”/Columbia Pictures/Sony Pictures Entertainment

Many find her appearance on “Ghostbusters” to be one of the most iconic of her career, with the clip giving everyone a very clear idea of just who Peter Venkman, played by Murray, and how he is. This scene helped set the tone for how we say Venkman the rest of the movie, which could not have been possible without her part. She will go down in history as a talent that was taken from the world too soon.

An Amazing Mother and Wife

As her character in “Charles in Charge,” the actress played the long-time girlfriend, Gwendolyn Pierce, to Scott Baio’s character, Charles. He made a heartfelt post, remarking on her marriage to Todd Corman and their two children.

Erin Murphy from Bewitched had this to say after her friend’s passing,

“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.”

Many have expressed their sympathies and heartfelt sorrow at the news of her passing, ranging from acquaintances, other actors/actresses she starred with, production, friends, and family. It is obvious that she has left behind a legacy that will live on in the hearts and minds of all whom she came in contact with. May her family find peace in this time of need.

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