Lion King Star Imani Smith Dies Aged 26

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Imani Dia Smith, who starred as Young Nala in the Broadway production of “The Lion King” from 2011 to 2012, has died at the age of 26. Authorities say she was fatally stabbed, according to a statement from the Middlesex County, New Jersey Prosecutor’s Office.

On December 21st, police in Edison, New Jersey—a town about 40 miles from Manhattan—received an emergency call and found a woman, later identified as Smith, suffering from multiple stab wounds. She was taken by ambulance to Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital in New Brunswick, but was sadly pronounced dead upon arrival.

Jordan D. Jackson-Small, Smith’s boyfriend, was arrested and charged with multiple crimes related to the incident. These charges include first-degree murder, endangering a child, and unlawful possession of a weapon.

A GoFundMe campaign was started to help Smith’s parents, her three-year-old son, and her dog. So far, they’ve raised $48,000 towards their $55,000 goal.

The GoFundMe states:

It is with deep sorrow that we share the news of my niece, Imani Dia Smith’s, tragic death. She was killed by her boyfriend on the morning of December 21st, just before Christmas. Imani was only 25 years old and leaves behind her 3-year-old son, her parents, siblings, and a large family, group of friends, and community who will miss her dearly.

Imani had a bright future filled with potential. She was full of life, kind-hearted, and incredibly gifted. Best known for playing Young Nala in Broadway’s The Lion King, she brought the same happiness, imagination, and positivity to everything she did.

Smith is also survived by her aunt and two younger siblings.

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Natasha Smith first performed in The Lion King on September 27, 2011, and her final performance was on September 23, 2012.

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2025-12-25 02:07