Imani Dia Smith, 26, a former Broadway child performer who played young Nala in The Lion King (2011–2012), was found stabbed at a home in Edison, New Jersey, and later died at a hospital. A GoFundMe organized by her aunt says she was "killed by her boyfriend" and that she leaves behind a three-year-old son. Authorities arrested 35-year-old Jordan D. Jackson-Small, who faces first-degree murder and multiple weapon- and child-endangerment charges; he is being held pending a court hearing.
Former 'Lion King' Broadway Child Star Imani Dia Smith Fatally Stabbed in New Jersey — Suspect Arrested
Imani Dia Smith. (GoFundMe)
Imani Dia Smith, 26, a former child performer who played young Nala in Broadway’s The Lion King, was found stabbed at a home in Edison, New Jersey, on Sunday morning and later died at a hospital, Middlesex County officials said.
A GoFundMe page organized by Smith’s aunt says Smith was "killed by her boyfriend" and notes she is survived by a three-year-old son. The fundraising page described her as "vivacious, loving and fiercely talented," and called on the community to support the family.
Investigation and Arrest
An investigation led to the arrest of 35-year-old Jordan D. Jackson-Small. Authorities said Jackson-Small knew Smith but did not specify the nature of their relationship. He has been charged with first-degree murder, second-degree endangering the welfare of a child, third-degree possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose and fourth-degree unlawful possession of a weapon, according to the Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office.
Custody and Court Status
Inmate records show Jackson-Small is being held at the Middlesex County Adult Corrections Center awaiting a court hearing. Court records did not list an attorney for him as of the latest update. Prosecutors and police say the investigation remains active as they continue to gather evidence and interview witnesses.
Background
Smith performed as young Nala on Broadway’s The Lion King for about a year between 2011 and 2012, according to Playbill. Her mother has worked as a hairstylist for theater, Broadway and television productions, including The Lion King stage show and the film adaptation of In the Heights.
“Imani had her whole life ahead of her,” her aunt wrote on the GoFundMe page. “She was a vivacious, loving and fiercely talented person.”
Authorities have asked anyone with information about the case to contact the Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office. The family has asked for privacy while they mourn.
