Jennifer Runyon, an actress known for her roles in classic 1980s films and television shows, has passed away at the age of 65. Her family confirmed her death on March 6, 2026, revealing that she had faced significant health challenges in the time leading up to her passing. Although she stepped back from acting, Runyon remained cherished by her fans.
Following the announcement of her death, varying reports emerged regarding the exact cause. While some sources, including close friend Erin Murphy, indicated that Runyon had been battling cancer, others suggested that she experienced a prolonged illness without explicitly stating the type of sickness. The conflicting information has caused uncertainty about the specific health issues she faced.
Despite the ambiguity, her family noted that Runyon had been dealing with serious health problems for several months prior to her death. Friends and colleagues mentioned that although her final months were challenging, she was surrounded by loved ones, providing her with support. The family’s statement emphasized that she passed away peacefully.
Jennifer Runyon was married to Todd Corman, a collegiate basketball coach, since March 9, 1991. Together, they had two children, Wyatt and Bayley. Corman has worked at various universities, including Loyola Marymount University and Oregon State University, while maintaining a private family life away from public scrutiny.
Runyon gained fame in the 1980s, with notable appearances in films such as Ghostbusters and Up the Creek. She became particularly well-known for her role as Gwendolyn Pierce in the television series Charles in Charge and also had a significant part in the soap opera Another World. Throughout her career, she featured in various acclaimed TV series including Quantum Leap and Murder, She Wrote before gradually moving away from acting in the mid-1990s.
Her departure from the entertainment industry allowed her to focus on personal endeavors, including family and teaching, further distancing herself from the Hollywood spotlight. Jennifer Runyon’s contributions to film and television have left a lasting impression, and her legacy will be remembered fondly by many.