Imani Dia Smith Dead at 25: Broadway Lion King Alum – Life, Career & Tragic Death

Imani Dia Smith, beloved Broadway child actress and former Young Nala in The Lion King, tragically passed away at age 25 on December 21, 2025. Found with fatal stab wounds in her Edison, New Jersey home, she was pronounced dead at the hospital. Her boyfriend, 35-year-old Jordan D. Jackson-Small, has been arrested and charged with first-degree murder. Smith leaves behind a 3-year-old son, grieving parents, and siblings. Her early career in Broadway and lasting impact on fans worldwide are remembered fondly. This article covers her life, career, tragic death, family, and the community response.

Early Life: A Star is Born

Imani Dia Smith was born in the late 1990s, showing a natural flair for performance from a young age. Growing up in a family that encouraged artistic expression, she quickly became recognized for her talent, discipline, and charisma.

Her mother, Monique Rance-Helper, is a hairstylist with credits in theatre, film, and television, and played an instrumental role in nurturing Imani’s artistic development. Imani’s early years included vocal training, dance classes, and stage experience, preparing her for the competitive world of Broadway.

Her dedication and skill stood out, and by her early teens, she had already secured a role that would mark the start of a promising career in the performing arts.

Broadway Breakthrough: Young Nala in The Lion King

Imani’s biggest breakthrough came when she was cast as Young Nala in the Broadway production of The Lion King, one of the most celebrated and longest-running musicals in the world.

From September 27, 2011, to September 23, 2012, Smith brought the young lioness to life with a mix of energy, charm, and vocal talent. The role of Young Nala is critical in setting the emotional tone for the story, as it introduces audiences to Simba’s loyal friend and foreshadows the journey of courage, friendship, and love at the heart of the musical.

Performing on Broadway at such a young age is no small feat. It requires not only talent but also remarkable focus, maturity, and the ability to work under the intense pressures of a professional theatre environment. Smith’s portrayal delighted audiences and critics alike, leaving a lasting impression on Broadway-goers.

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Life After Broadway

While Imani’s time on Broadway was a highlight, her life after the stage continued to reflect her artistic sensibilities and love for performance. She remained involved in local theatre, community productions, and mentoring programs for young performers.

Her dedication to arts education and youth programs reflected her belief in giving back to the community and helping the next generation of performers develop their skills. Though her life was tragically cut short, her commitment to theatre and mentorship left a meaningful impact on those around her.

The Tragic Circumstances of Her Death

On December 21, 2025, Imani Dia Smith was found in her Edison, New Jersey home with fatal stab wounds. She was transported to Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital in New Brunswick, where she was pronounced dead.

Law enforcement quickly arrested her boyfriend, Jordan D. Jackson-Small, 35, who has been charged with:

• First-degree murder
• Second-degree endangerment of a child
• Third-degree possession of a weapon for unlawful purposes
• Fourth-degree unlawful possession of a weapon

Authorities have stated that the killing was not random and that Smith and Jackson-Small knew each other prior to the incident. The tragedy has left her family, friends, and fans in shock, especially during the holiday season.

A Young Mother Left Behind

Beyond her Broadway career, Smith was a devoted mother to a 3-year-old son. Her death leaves her child without a mother, amplifying the grief for her family and friends. Immediate family, including her parents and two younger siblings, now face the dual burden of mourning her loss while supporting her child through this traumatic time.

The community has rallied around the family to provide emotional and financial support. It recognizing the profound loss that Smith’s passing represents.

Community Response and Support

Following the tragedy, Smith’s family established a GoFundMe campaign to help cover funeral expenses, legal costs, trauma therapy for loved ones, and long-term care for her son. The campaign highlights Smith as “vivacious, loving, and fiercely talented,” a reminder of the light she brought into the world despite her brief life.

As of late December 2025, the fundraiser has raised significant support, reflecting the love and admiration from fans, fellow performers, and the local community. This outpouring demonstrates how deeply Smith’s life and contributions affected others, both on and off the stage.

Remembering Her Talent

Even though Smith’s career was brief, her performance as Young Nala remains a cherished memory for many. The Lion King is renowned for its groundbreaking puppetry, music, and storytelling. Elements that require a high level of talent from its performers.

Her role, although young Simba’s friend, helped set the emotional tone for the musical and contributed to its global acclaim. Fans remember her for the joy, energy, and precision she brought to the stage, cementing her legacy as a gifted young performer.

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Broader Reflections on Child Performers

Imani Dia Smith’s story is also a reminder of the challenges faced by child performers. While Broadway and film provide incredible opportunities. Young actors often navigate pressure, intense schedules, and public scrutiny at an age when most children are still learning life skills.

Her life exemplifies both the potential and the vulnerability that accompany early fame. It highlighting the need for strong family support, mentorship, and protection for young artists.

The Ongoing Legal Case

Jackson-Small remains in custody at the Middlesex County Adult Correctional Center. The case is ongoing, and legal proceedings will determine his accountability for Smith’s death. Prosecutors have emphasized the seriousness of the charges and the need for justice for both Smith and her young son.

The family and community are closely monitoring the case, hoping for resolution and accountability while simultaneously mourning their loss.

Coping With Loss During the Holidays

The timing of Smith’s death — just weeks before Christmas — has compounded the tragedy. For family, friends, and fans, the holiday season is now a period of mourning and reflection rather than celebration. Many have turned to community support, counseling, and shared remembrance to navigate the grief.

Her story also sparks broader conversations about domestic safety, violence prevention, and support for victims, particularly in cases where children are affected.

Legacy of Imani Dia Smith

Imani Dia Smith’s life may have been short, but her legacy endures:

• Broadway Impact: Her performance in The Lion King continues to inspire audiences and young performers.
• Mentorship: She supported arts education and encouraged young talent.
• Community Influence: Her family, friends, and fans continue to celebrate her life and memory.
• Parenting: She is remembered as a devoted mother who loved her child deeply.

Through these contributions, Smith’s spirit and talent remain alive in the hearts of those who knew and admired her.

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FAQs

Who was Imani Dia Smith?
She was a former Broadway child actress who played Young Nala in Disney’s The Lion King from 2011 to 2012.

How did she die?
She was tragically killed by stabbing in her Edison, New Jersey home on December 21, 2025.

Who is responsible for her death?
Her boyfriend, Jordan D. Jackson-Small, 35, has been arrested and charged with first-degree murder and related offenses.

Did she have children?
Yes, she leaves behind a 3-year-old son.

How is her family coping?
They are grieving while seeking support from the community, including a GoFundMe. The campaign to assist with funeral, legal, and childcare expenses.

What is her legacy?
Smith’s Broadway work, mentorship, and dedication to family and community leave a lasting impression on the arts world and her fans worldwide.

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