Former ‘Lion King’ Broadway child star Imani Dia Smith fatally stabbed in New Jersey

EDISON, N.J. — Former Broadway actress Imani Dia Smith, who played Young Nala in The Lion King, was fatally stabbed in central New Jersey. Her boyfriend has been charged in connection with her death, prosecutors said.

Beloved mother, Lion King Broadway actress Imani Dia Smith killed

Prosecutors said authorities discovered Smith, 26, with multiple stab wounds inside an Edison home on the morning of Dec. 21. First responders rushed her to a hospital, where medical staff pronounced her dead.

Boyfriend charged in connection to her stabbing death

Authorities arrested Jordan D. Jackson‑Small, 35, and prosecutors charged him with first‑degree murder, endangering the welfare of a child, and weapons offenses. Prosecutors said the killing was not a random act. Jackson‑Small remains held at the Middlesex County Adult Corrections Center.

Family Mourns Imani Dia Smith: A “Vivacious” and Gifted Performer

Smith’s family said in a GoFundMe they are grieving an “unimaginable” loss. Loved ones described her as a vibrant, loving young woman whose talent emerged early and carried her to one of Broadway’s most iconic stages.

“Imani had her whole life ahead of her,” the GoFundMe reads. “She was vivacious, loving, and fiercely talented.”

Smith performed as Young Nala in The Lion King between 2011 and 2012, earning praise for her voice, presence, and discipline at a young age. Her mother, a longtime Broadway and TV/film hair stylist, supported her throughout her early career.

Family members said Smith brought “joy, creativity, and light” to every space she entered and remained devoted to her son, her siblings, and her extended family.

In light of her tragic death, her family has taken custody of her 3‑year‑old child.

Community Support Grows

The verified GoFundMe page created by family has raised more than $71,000 as of Dec. 27. The fundraiser aims to help her parents grieve, care for her young son, and maintain stability as they navigate the aftermath of her death.

Authorities ask anyone with information about the case to contact the Edison Police Department at 732‑718‑8064 or the Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office at 732‑745‑8083.