EDISON, New Jersey —Former Broadway performer Imani Dia Smith, best known for portraying Young Nala in *The Lion King*, has died after being fatally stabbed at her home, authorities confirmed. She was 25 years old. Emergency responders were called to Smith’s residence in Edison on December 21, 2025, following a 911 report of a stabbing. Smith was found with multiple stab wounds and was rushed to Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital in New Brunswick, where she was later pronounced dead. Law enforcement officials have arrested Smith’s 35-year-old boyfriend, Jordan D. Jackson-Small, in conn

EDISON, New Jersey —Former Broadway performer Imani Dia Smith, best known for portraying Young Nala in *The Lion King*, has died after being fatally stabbed at her home, authorities confirmed. She was 25 years old.

Emergency responders were called to Smith’s residence in Edison on December 21, 2025, following a 911 report of a stabbing. Smith was found with multiple stab wounds and was rushed to Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital in New Brunswick, where she was later pronounced dead. Law enforcement officials have arrested Smith’s 35-year-old boyfriend, Jordan D. Jackson-Small, in connection with her death. He has been charged with first-degree murder, second-degree endangering the welfare of a child, and multiple weapons offenses. Investigators said the incident was not random and confirmed that Smith and the suspect knew each other prior to the attack.

Imani Dia Smith also known as Young Nala in Lion King.

Smith is survived by her three-year-old son, her parents, siblings, and extended family. Her family has expressed deep grief over the loss, describing her as a devoted mother and a bright talent taken too soon. A GoFundMe campaign, organized by Smith’s aunt, has been launched to help cover funeral expenses, trauma support for her son and family, legal costs, and other related needs. Tributes from friends, colleagues, and fans have poured in, remembering Smith as a vivacious, loving, and fiercely talented performer whose early Broadway work brought joy to audiences worldwide. Jackson-Small remains in custody at the Middlesex County Adult Correctional Center as prosecutors and local authorities continue their investigation.

A little more informed. A little more connected.