What actress from "Ghostbusters" and "Charles in Charge" died in March 2026 at age 65?

Actress Jennifer Runyon, known for her appearances in the classic films and television shows of the 1980s, passed away in March 2026 at the age of 65. Runyon’s death on March 6, 2026, followed a battle with cancer. Born on April 1, 1960, she left a memorable mark on pop culture with her roles in the iconic comedy Ghostbusters (Review) and the popular sitcom "Charles in Charge."

In "Ghostbusters" (1984), Jennifer Runyon played the role of a college student undergoing an ESP test conducted by Bill Murray's character, Dr. Peter Venkman, in one of the film's early, memorable scenes. Her comedic timing and interaction with Murray made her a recognizable face to fans of the supernatural (Review) blockbuster. The same year, she also starred as Gwendolyn Pierce in the first season of "Charles in Charge," a sitcom that became a staple of 1980s television.

Beyond these prominent roles, Runyon's career spanned various film and television projects. She made her feature film debut in 1980 and also appeared in the soap opera "Another World" in the early 1980s. Later in her career, she took on the role of Cindy Brady in the 1988 television film "A Very Brady Christmas," further cementing her presence in beloved franchises. In a 2014 interview, Runyon mentioned she was semi-retired from acting and had transitioned to working as a teacher, while also co-hosting a cooking podcast.