Imani Dia Smith the talented former child actress best known for playing Young Nala in The Lion King Broadway production has died at the age of 25. Her death has shocked fans and the entertainment world with police arresting her boyfriend in connection with the case. What has happened? On the morning of December 21 2025 emergency services were called to a residence in Edison New Jersey after a report of an injured woman. First responders found Imani Dia Smith with fatal stab wounds inside the home. She was rushed to a nearby hospital but was later pronounced dead. Law enforcement quickly began an investigation into the circumstances of her death. The arrest for the crime As per reports the police arrested Jordan D. Jackson-Small 35 who was identified as Smith’s boyfriend. He was taken into custody and charged with first-degree murder. Authorities are also pursuing additional charges connected to the case. Initial statements from the prosecutor’s office confirmed the arrest was made without incident and that the killing was not random. Who was Imani Dia Smith? Imani Dia Smith rose to early fame on Broadway where she performed in The Lion King as Young Nala from 2011 to 2012. Fans and colleagues remember her as a lively and gifted performer who brought joy to audiences. Beyond her stage career she was a young mother leaving behind her 3-year-old son as well as her parents and two younger siblings. Her family and friends are now grieving her loss and working to support her child during this difficult time. More about Imani Dia Smith In the days after her death Smith’s aunt organized a fundraiser to help cover funeral costs future legal proceedings and the needs of Smith’s son. In a heartfelt message the family described Imani as “vivacious loving and fiercely talented” and said she had “her whole life ahead of her.” The community continues to express its sorrow at the loss of a beloved young actress whose promising life was cut tragically short.