Broadway Star Imani Smith Fatally Stabbed

Tragedy has struck the Broadway community with the murder of Imani Dia Smith, a former child star most recognized for her role as Young Nala in Disney's The Lion King. The 25-year-old actress was discovered with fatal stab wounds at a residence in Edison, New Jersey, on Sunday, December 21st. Despite attempts to save her life, she was pronounced deceased at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital.

Authorities have arrested and charged Smith's boyfriend, 35-year-old Jordan D. Jackson-Small, in connection with the stabbing death. He faces multiple charges, including first-degree murder and endangering the welfare of a child. The attack occurred just days before Christmas, leaving Smith's young son, parents, and siblings to mourn her loss.

A GoFundMe campaign has been launched by Smith's aunt to assist her parents, Monique Rance-Helper and Rawni Helper. The funds will help cover funeral expenses, crime scene cleanup, trauma therapy for her son and family, lost wages, and ongoing care for her three-year-old child. Smith was remembered as a vibrant and talented performer with her whole life ahead of her.