The Broadway community is reeling after the shocking death of Imani Dia Smith, a former child star best known for her role as Young Nala in Disney’s The Lion King. Smith, just 25 years old, was fatally stabbed at her home in Edison, New Jersey, on Sunday, December 21, 2025. Authorities say her boyfriend, 35-year-old Jordan D. Jackson-Small, has been arrested in connection with her murder and 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 a press release issued by Middlesex County Prosecutor Yolanda Ciccone and Edison Police Department Chief Thomas Bryan, emergency responders were called to Smith’s residence after reports of an assault. Paramedics attempted to save her life, but she was pronounced dead at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital in New Brunswick.
The tragedy has sent shockwaves not only through Smith’s family but also across the theater community, where she had made a name for herself as a talented and driven performer from a very young age. Her passing comes just days before Christmas, a time that is typically associated with family gatherings and celebration, making the loss all the more devastating.
A Life Cut Short
Smith began her Broadway career as a child, joining the cast of The Lion King as Young Nala from September 27, 2011, to September 23, 2012. The production, widely acclaimed for its innovative staging and memorable performances, has long been a launching pad for young actors and actresses. Smith’s portrayal of Young Nala was praised for its charm, energy, and maturity beyond her years, establishing her as a rising talent in the theater world.
In addition to her stage career, Smith was described by family and friends as a “vivacious, loving, and fiercely talented” individual, committed not only to her craft but also to her family and her young son, who is now three years old. The actress leaves behind her parents, Monique Rance-Helper and Rawni Helper, two younger siblings, and an extended family who are grappling with the unimaginable loss of a daughter, sister, and mother at such a young age.
Her aunt, speaking through a GoFundMe campaign set up to assist the family, shared that Smith’s boyfriend has been named as the perpetrator. The campaign reads: “It is with a tragic and heavy heart that we share the loss of my niece, Imani Dia Smith, who was senselessly killed by her boyfriend on the morning of Sunday, December 21st, just ahead of Christmas. Imani was only 25 years old. She leaves behind a 3-year-old son, her parents, her two younger siblings, and an extended family, friends, and community who loved her so very much.”
Support for the Family
The GoFundMe campaign aims to help Smith’s family cover the costs associated with the tragedy. Funds will go toward funeral and memorial expenses, crime scene cleanup, trauma therapy for Smith’s son and siblings, time off work for family members to grieve and attend legal proceedings, legal and administrative costs, ongoing support for her young child, and care for Smith’s beloved dog, Kuro. The page emphasizes the dual challenge facing Smith’s parents: grieving the death of their daughter while also stepping in to raise her son and support their other children during this extremely difficult period.
The campaign has already received an outpouring of support from the theater community, friends, and strangers alike, reflecting the impact Smith had on those around her. Many remember her not only for her talent but also for her warmth, kindness, and infectious energy. Tributes poured in on social media from former colleagues and fans who had followed her career from her earliest performances to her adult life.
The Circumstances of Her Death
Authorities have provided limited information regarding the specifics of the stabbing, other than confirming that the assault occurred inside Smith’s home in Edison. Jackson-Small was taken into custody without incident and charged shortly thereafter. While the motive has not been publicly confirmed, the arrest and multiple charges suggest a domestic dispute turned deadly.
This case underscores the broader issue of domestic violence, which remains a leading cause of injury and death among women in the United States. Experts say that incidents of domestic violence often escalate over time, and victims may face significant barriers in seeking help, including fear of retaliation, financial dependence, or lack of social support. This tragic event highlights the importance of awareness, intervention, and resources to prevent similar tragedies.
Imani Dia Smith’s Legacy
Despite her short life, Smith left a lasting impression on the Broadway community. Her performance as Young Nala in The Lion King was only the beginning of a promising career. Friends and colleagues describe her as a “triple-threat” performer, excelling in acting, singing, and dancing, with a natural stage presence that captivated audiences.
Many who worked with her during her time on Broadway recall her professionalism and dedication, even as a child. She approached rehearsals with focus and discipline, while maintaining a joyful enthusiasm that made her a beloved member of the cast. The lessons she learned on stage carried into her personal life, where she instilled creativity, confidence, and resilience in her young son.
Smith’s role in The Lion King also marked her as part of a generation of young performers who have been recognized for their contributions to theater from a young age. Broadway has long been a demanding environment, particularly for child actors, who must balance rigorous performance schedules with education and personal development. Smith’s ability to thrive in this context speaks to her talent, determination, and maturity.
Community and Industry Reactions
News of Smith’s death has prompted widespread mourning. Fellow performers, theater enthusiasts, and fans have taken to social media to express their condolences, many sharing personal stories of having seen her perform or having met her at events. The Broadway community, known for its tight-knit nature, has rallied around her family, offering emotional and financial support in the wake of the tragedy.
Organizations dedicated to supporting performing arts professionals, particularly young performers, have highlighted the need for stronger protections and support systems for actors, both on and off the stage. The combination of Smith’s youth, talent, and the violent circumstances of her death has sparked conversations about the vulnerabilities faced by women, particularly those in public or high-profile roles, and the importance of community vigilance and resources.
Legal Proceedings Ahead
Jackson-Small is currently being held in custody as the legal process moves forward. Prosecutors have indicated that they will pursue the case aggressively, given the severity of the charges. Legal experts note that cases involving domestic homicides can be complex, requiring careful investigation of evidence, witness statements, and forensic findings.
The outcome of the trial will be closely watched, both for the sake of justice for Smith and for her surviving family members, especially her young son, who will be profoundly affected by the loss of his mother at such a formative age. Attorneys and advocates for domestic violence victims stress the importance of holding perpetrators accountable while also providing ongoing support for families left behind.
Remembering a Bright Talent
While her life was tragically cut short, Imani Dia Smith’s legacy endures through her performances, the memories she created for audiences, and the impact she had on those who knew her personally. Friends and family describe her as a source of light, whose creativity and warmth touched countless lives.
Her story also serves as a somber reminder of the fragility of life and the devastating impact of domestic violence. In the wake of her death, her family and community are urging awareness and action to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
In addition to mourning, there is a call to celebrate Smith’s life and achievements. Her time on Broadway, particularly in The Lion King, inspired other young performers and demonstrated the possibilities of dedication and talent from an early age. The support for her family through fundraising and public tributes reflects the widespread recognition of her contributions and the deep loss felt by her passing.
A Family Left Behind
For Smith’s parents, the grief is compounded by immediate responsibilities to care for their granddaughter’s child. Monique Rance-Helper and Rawni Helper are now tasked with raising their granddaughter’s son while also navigating the legal proceedings and emotional trauma of losing a daughter in such violent circumstances.
Friends, neighbors, and colleagues have rallied around the family, offering assistance with childcare, household needs, and counseling services. Many have emphasized the importance of community solidarity in the aftermath of such a tragedy, ensuring that the young child grows up surrounded by support and love despite the heartbreaking circumstances.
Conclusion
The murder of Imani Dia Smith is a tragic and shocking event that has left her family, friends, and the broader theater community devastated. Her life, though short, was marked by extraordinary talent, compassion, and a dedication to her craft that inspired all who encountered her.
As the investigation continues and legal proceedings unfold, the focus remains on providing justice for Smith and support for her surviving family members. Her legacy will live on in the memories of her performances, the stories shared by those who loved her, and the positive impact she had on the lives of so many.
The Broadway community and the public alike mourn the loss of a young star who had so much potential and a life full of promise. Tributes continue to pour in, and the GoFundMe campaign set up for her family reflects the generosity, empathy, and solidarity of those who wish to honor her memory and help her loved ones during this unbearable time.
Smith’s story, while heartbreaking, is also a reminder of the need for awareness and intervention in cases of domestic violence and the importance of supporting survivors and families impacted by such tragedies. Her life and career, though tragically cut short, will continue to inspire future generations of performers and remind audiences of the power of talent, dedication, and the human spirit.
Emily Johnson is a critically acclaimed essayist and novelist known for her thought-provoking works centered on feminism, women’s rights, and modern relationships. Born and raised in Portland, Oregon, Emily grew up with a deep love of books, often spending her afternoons at her local library. She went on to study literature and gender studies at UCLA, where she became deeply involved in activism and began publishing essays in campus journals. Her debut essay collection, Voices Unbound, struck a chord with readers nationwide for its fearless exploration of gender dynamics, identity, and the challenges faced by women in contemporary society. Emily later transitioned into fiction, writing novels that balance compelling storytelling with social commentary. Her protagonists are often strong, multidimensional women navigating love, ambition, and the struggles of everyday life, making her a favorite among readers who crave authentic, relatable narratives. Critics praise her ability to merge personal intimacy with universal themes. Off the page, Emily is an advocate for women in publishing, leading workshops that encourage young female writers to embrace their voices. She lives in Seattle with her partner and two rescue cats, where she continues to write, teach, and inspire a new generation of storytellers.
