Edison, New Jersey — Lion King child star Imani Dia Smith dies at 26 in a tragic incident that has shocked fans and the Broadway community worldwide. Smith, known for her breakthrough role as Young Nala in the acclaimed Broadway production of The Lion King, was found fatally stabbed at her Edison home on December 21, 2025, authorities confirmed.
Police and emergency responders were called to Smith’s residence after a 911 call reported a stabbing at around 9:18 a.m. Upon arrival, officers discovered the 25‑26‑year‑old actress with serious wounds and rushed her to Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital, where she was later pronounced dead, according to the Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office.
Investigators arrested Jordan D. Jackson‑Small, 35, identified as Smith’s boyfriend, on December 23. He now faces multiple charges, including first‑degree murder, second‑degree endangering the welfare of a child, and various weapons offenses, the prosecutor’s office said. Officials noted the attack was not random, as the couple knew each other prior to the incident.
Smith rose to prominence as a child performer, portraying Young Nala on Broadway’s The Lion King from 2011 to 2012, a role that introduced her to audiences globally and became a highlight of her early career. Her family and fans remember her as a vivacious, talented performer whose artistry and warmth resonated onstage and in the wider entertainment world.
In the wake of her untimely death, her aunt Kira Helper organized a GoFundMe campaign to support Smith’s family, including her parents and her 3‑year‑old son, raising tens of thousands for funeral costs, trauma therapy, and ongoing care. The community’s response has been one of deep sorrow, with fans and fellow artists expressing shock and grief across social media platforms.
Smith’s passing comes amid other notable deaths in the arts, including the recent obituary of acclaimed writer Vinod Kumar Shukla. While from a different sphere, both losses remind the world of the fragile nature of life and the imprint creative talents leave behind.
Imani Dia Smith dies at 26 leaving behind a grieving family, a grieving industry, and a legacy as one of The Lion King’s beloved stars whose early promise touched many.
