The performing arts community is mourning the loss of a former Broadway actress whose life was tragically cut short. Imani Dia Smith, who appeared in Disney on Broadway's “The Lion King” as a child, died December 21, following a stabbing at her New Jersey home. Authorities have charged her boyfriend with first-degree murder in connection with her death.
Smith was just 26 years old.
Fatal Stabbing in New Jersey Home
Middlesex County authorities responded to Smith's Edison residence after emergency dispatchers received a 911 call about a stabbing incident. The Office of the County Prosecutor in Middlesex County, New Jersey, issued a press release outlining the tragic events.
First responders discovered Smith suffering from stab wounds when they arrived at the scene. Emergency medical personnel transported her to Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital in New Brunswick, where medical staff pronounced her dead despite treatment efforts.
Murder Charges Filed Against Boyfriend
Two days after Smith's death, law enforcement arrested Jordan D. Jackson-Small, age 35, whom authorities identified as Smith's boyfriend. Jackson-Small was taken into custody on December 23 and now faces multiple criminal charges related to Smith's killing.
Prosecutors have charged Jackson-Small with first-degree murder as the primary offense. Additional charges include 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.
Young Nala in “The Lion King” on Broadway
Smith's connection to Broadway began during her childhood years when she joined the cast of one of the theater district's most iconic productions. From 2011 to 2012, she performed the role of Young Nala in Disney on Broadway's “The Lion King.”
Her family has deep roots in the entertainment industry. Smith's mother, Monique Rance-Helper, has built a career as a professional hairdresser working on Broadway productions and numerous film and television projects. Since 2010, she has contributed her talents to over 25 different movies and television shows.
Fundraising Efforts for Family Support
Smith's aunt initiated a GoFundMe campaign immediately following the tragedy to provide financial assistance for Smith's parents, Monique Rance-Helper and Rawni Helper. The fundraising effort targets multiple urgent needs, including funeral arrangements, legal expenses, and ongoing support for Smith's three-year-old son and her dog, Kuro.
Smith leaves behind her young child, her parents, two younger siblings, and countless others whose lives she touched through her artistry and personal relationships.
Community response to the fundraising appeal has been overwhelming. The campaign has collected over $68,000 in donations as supporters rally to help Smith's family manage the financial burdens accompanying this unimaginable loss.
“Imani had her whole life ahead of her,” the family wrote. “She was a vivacious, loving and fiercely talented person. A true triple-threat performer, she most notably played the role of Young Nala on Broadway in Disney's Lion King — an experience that reflected the joy, creativity, and light she put into the world.”
Disney Fanatic sends its condolences to Imani Dia Smith's family and friends.
