'The Lion King' Broadway Actress Imani Dia Smith Killed at 25; Boyfriend Charged with Murder

The curtain has tragically fallen for a former Broadway star. Imani Dia Smith, who starred as Young Nala in the stage production of 'The Lion King' as a child, has died at the age of 25. Her boyfriend has been arrested and charged in connection with her death.

A Star's Life Cut Short

According to a press release issued by prosecutors on December 23, authorities were dispatched to Smith's residence in Edison, N.J., on the morning of Dec. 21 following a report of a stabbing. Upon arrival, they discovered Smith with multiple stab wounds. She was transported to a nearby hospital where she was ultimately pronounced deceased.

Boyfriend Faces Murder Charges

Middlesex County Prosecutor Yolanda Ciccone and Edison Police Chief Thomas Bryan announced that Smith's boyfriend, Jordan D. Jackson-Small, 35, has been arrested. He now faces charges of first-degree murder, second-degree endangering the welfare of a child, and two weapons-related offenses. The press release noted that a preliminary investigation concluded the alleged killing 'was not a random act of violence.' Jackson-Small is currently being held at the Middlesex County Adult Correctional Center awaiting a pre-trial detention hearing.

Community Rallies to Support Family

Smith is survived by a 3-year-old son. In the wake of her death, Smith's aunt, Kira Helper, set up a GoFundMe page to support the family. "Imani had her whole life ahead of her. She was a vivacious, loving, and fiercely talented person," Helper wrote. The funds are intended for funeral expenses, trauma therapy for her son and family, and legal costs. As of Wednesday, the campaign has raised over $47,000 toward a $50,000 goal.