Imani Smith, who rose to fame as a child actor on Broadway playing Young Nala in The Lion King, has died at the age of 26.
Authorities in Middlesex County, New Jersey, confirmed that Smith died on December 21 following a stabbing incident in Edison. Police responded to a 911 call and found her with multiple injuries. She was rushed to Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital, where she was later pronounced dead.
A 35-year-old man, Jordan D. Jackson-Small, has been arrested in connection with the case. Prosecutors stated that Smith and the suspect were known to each other and that the incident was not random. Jackson-Small faces charges including first-degree murder, multiple weapons offences, and endangering the welfare of a child.
Following her death, a GoFundMe campaign was launched to support Smith’s family and help care for her young son. The fundraiser describes the loss as devastating for her parents and siblings as they navigate an unimaginable period of grief.
Imani Smith’s passing has deeply affected the Broadway community, where she was remembered for her early contribution to one of theatre’s most iconic productions. Although she later stepped away from the spotlight, her time on stage remained a significant part of her legacy.
She is survived by her three-year-old son, her parents, two younger siblings, and extended family.