‘The Lion King’ Broadway Actress Imani Dia Smith Stabbed to Death at 25; Boyfriend Arrested

Broadway actress Imani Dia Smith, best known for portraying Young Nala in the stage production of The Lion King, has been tragically killed at the age of 25. Smith was found with multiple stab wounds at her residence in New Jersey, and her 35-year-old boyfriend, Jordan D. Jackson-Small, has been arrested in connection with her death.

According to a press release issued by the County Prosecutor’s Office in New Jersey, authorities received a 911 emergency call at 9:18 a.m. on Sunday, December 21, 2025, reporting a stabbing incident. Officers responding to the call found Smith injured at her home on Grove Avenue.

She was rushed to Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital, where she was later pronounced dead.

Boyfriend Charged

As reported by People, Jackson-Small has been formally charged with Smith’s murder. Officials stated that the accused and the victim were known to each other, indicating that the incident was not a random act of violence. Following a preliminary investigation, multiple charges have been filed against him, and the case remains under investigation.

Family Raises Funds for Funeral and Legal Expenses

In the wake of the tragedy, Smith’s family has launched a GoFundMe fundraiser, which has raised over $50,000 as of December 25. The appeal was shared by Smith’s aunt, Kira Helper, who described her as a vibrant, loving, and exceptionally talented young woman.

“She leaves behind a three-year-old son, her parents, two younger siblings, and a large circle of family and friends who adored her. Imani had her entire life ahead of her,” the family wrote.

Use of Funds

The family stated that the funds will be used for funeral and memorial services, cleaning and securing Smith’s home, legal expenses related to the case, grief counseling for family members, and care for Smith’s dog.

Imani Dia Smith’s mother works as a hairstylist in the film industry, with one of her recent projects being The Housemaid.

The sudden and violent loss of the young actress has sent shockwaves through the Broadway and theatre community, with fans and colleagues mourning a life and career cut tragically short.