Imani Dia Smith, a former Broadway performer best known for playing Young Nala in The Lion King, has died at the age of 25 after a stabbing incident in New Jersey. The attack happened on Sunday, December 21, at a home in Edison, after police received a 911 call about a stabbing.
According to the Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office, Smith was taken to Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital in New Brunswick, where doctors pronounced her dead. Police confirmed that a homicide investigation was started immediately.
Smith became well known as a child actor on Broadway and performed in The Lion King between 2011 and 2012. News of her death has shocked and saddened members of the theatre community.
Arrest and Charges
Police have arrested Smith’s boyfriend, Jordan D. Jackson-Small, 35, in connection with her death. Authorities say he has been charged with first degree murder.
He is also facing other charges, including endangering a child, and illegally possessing a weapon. Officials have not yet shared details about what led to the incident or whether he has pleaded guilty or not.
Family and Fundraiser
Smith is survived by her three year old son, her parents, two younger siblings, and other family members. After her death, the family started a GoFundMe fundraiser to help cover funeral costs, counselling for loved ones, legal expenses, and care for her young son and pet.
In a message on the fundraiser page, Smith’s aunt remembered her as a lively, kind, and very talented person, calling her a “true triple-threat” performer.
Smith’s mother, Monique, works as a hairstylist in theatre, television, and films, and has been part of more than 25 productions, including Smile (2022) and The Housemaid (2024).
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