When your father is a prominent face on Canadian and international television screens, growing up is rarely entirely ordinary. This is the reality for Ruby Simone Runyan, the daughter of beloved Canadian actor and director Damon Runyan and his wife, Jodie Dowdall.
While her father has spent decades capturing audiences in projects like Star Trek: Discovery, Gangland Undercover, and Degrassi: The Next Generation, Ruby has spent her formative years far from the glaring spotlight, nurtured by a family that prioritizes grounding, creativity, and privacy.
Here is an intimate look into the life, family, and upbringing of Ruby Simone Runyan.
1. Who Is Ruby Simone Runyan?
Ruby Simone Runyan is the only daughter of Canadian actor Damon Runyan and actress Jodie Dowdall. Born on March 1, 2017, in Toronto, Ontario, she is currently nine years old.
Unlike many celebrity children who are thrust into the public eye from infancy, Ruby’s parents have made a conscious effort to ensure she enjoys a normal, peaceful childhood. Rather than frequenting red carpets, Ruby’s life is filled with the typical experiences of a young Canadian girl—school, play, and spending quality time with her close-knit family.
2. Her Famous Father: Damon Runyan
To understand Ruby’s world, it helps to understand her father’s career. Damon Runyan (born January 1, 1976, in Toronto) is an accomplished actor, director, and writer. Over the years, he has built a reputation as one of Canada’s most versatile talents.
Some of Damon’s most notable roles include:
- Ujilli in Star Trek: Discovery
- Charles Falco in Gangland Undercover
- Coach Carson in Degrassi: The Next Generation
- Feature films like Cheaper by the Dozen 2 and Anon
Damon’s artistic journey began when he was quite young, even leading him to leave home at 16 to pursue his passion for the arts. This deep-seated love for storytelling has undoubtedly influenced the environment in which Ruby is being raised, where creative expression is highly valued.
3. Her Mother: Jodie Dowdall
Behind every grounded celebrity child is often a mother who keeps family life steady, and that is certainly true of Jodie Dowdall. An actress herself, Jodie has appeared in various Canadian television movies and series.
Damon and Jodie were married in 2016, and just a year later, they welcomed Ruby into the world. Jodie and Damon’s shared background in the arts means that Ruby is growing up in a household that understands both the magic and the demands of the entertainment industry. However, Jodie has always been heavily focused on ensuring their home remains a sanctuary of normalcy.
4. Growing Up in Toronto, Ontario
Ruby is growing up in Toronto, Ontario, one of North America’s most vibrant cultural hubs. Raising a child in Toronto allows her parents to give her a diverse, culturally rich upbringing while maintaining easy access to Canada’s thriving film and television industry.
Whether it’s visiting local parks, exploring Toronto’s interactive museums, or enjoying outdoor seasonal activities, Ruby’s daily life is a testament to the benefits of growing up in a bustling yet family-friendly metropolis. Her parents often share glimpses of their outdoor adventures, reinforcing their desire to keep her active and connected to nature.
5. A Household Filled with Creativity
In a household where both parents are actors and creators, imagination is a daily staple. While Ruby Simone Runyan is too young to decide on a career of her own, she is surrounded by the arts on a daily basis.
From backyard play and building blocks to storytime and creative games, Ruby’s environment is designed to foster curiosity and self-expression. Her parents’ social media occasionally highlights these warm, candid moments of play, showcasing a childhood that is rich in imagination rather than screen time.
6. Keeping Life Private in the Age of Social Media
In today’s digital world, many celebrity parents struggle to balance public careers with their children’s privacy. Damon Runyan and Jodie Dowdall have navigated this challenge with grace.
While they occasionally share heartfelt milestones, family outings, and birthday celebrations on Instagram, they are careful to keep Ruby’s day-to-day life, school details, and personal moments entirely private. This protective approach ensures that Ruby can grow up without the pressure of an online presence or the gaze of public expectation.
7. What Lies Ahead for Ruby Simone Runyan?
As Ruby continues to navigate her school years, the world remains open to her. Whether she decides to follow in her parents’ cinematic footsteps or choose an entirely different path, she has a supportive foundation to back her.
For now, her parents are focused on letting her be a kid—encouraging her to learn, play, and explore her interests at her own pace.
Conclusion
Ruby Simone Runyan is growing up with the best of both worlds: the creative inspiration of artistic parents and the grounded stability of a loving, private home in Toronto. Though her father Damon Runyan remains a familiar face on our screens, in Ruby’s world, he is simply “dad”—someone to play, explore, and grow with.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How old is Ruby Simone Runyan?
Ruby was born on March 1, 2017, making her 9 years old as of 2026.
Who are Ruby Simone Runyan’s parents?
She is the daughter of Canadian actor and director Damon Runyan and actress Jodie Dowdall.
Where does Ruby Simone Runyan live?
Ruby lives with her parents in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
Is Ruby Simone Runyan an actress?
No, Ruby is currently a student and is not pursuing an acting career. Her parents have kept her life focused on her education and childhood.
