The entertainment world is mourning the loss of a beloved 1980s star, as Jennifer Runyon—known for her roles in Ghostbusters and Charles in Charge—has died at the age of 65.

Runyon passed away following a brief battle with cancer, her family confirmed.

Best remembered for her appearance in the 1984 blockbuster Ghostbusters, Runyon played a student in the film’s memorable opening scene. She also gained widespread recognition on television as Gwendolyn Pierce in the sitcom Charles in Charge, becoming a familiar face to audiences throughout the 1980s.

Born on April 1, 1960, in Chicago, Runyon began her acting career in the early 1980s, making her film debut in To All a Good Night before landing roles in Up the Creek and several popular television series.

Over the years, she built a steady career with appearances in shows such as Another World, Quantum Leap, Murder, She Wrote, and Beverly Hills, 90210. Her versatility allowed her to move easily between film and television, earning her a loyal fan base.

In 2014, Runyon stepped back from acting, choosing to focus on family life and later working as a teacher. Friends and loved ones often described her as kind, compassionate, and deeply devoted to her family.

Her death was met with an outpouring of tributes, including from actress Erin Murphy, who remembered Runyon as a “special” friend with a warm spirit.

Runyon is survived by her husband, Todd Corman, and their two children, Wyatt and Bayley.

Her passing marks the loss of a familiar and cherished presence from a defining era of film and television—one whose performances continue to resonate with fans decades later.