Imani Dia Smith Death at 25: Facts About the Killing of the Former Lion King Child Star
Imani Dia Smith, a former child actress who appeared on Broadway in The Lion King, has passed away at the age of 25.
According to authorities, Imani was killed by her boyfriend, Jordan D. Jackson-Small. He has been charged with murder, endangering the welfare of a child, and several weapons-related offenses.
Imani became known for playing Young Nala in Disney’s The Lion King on Broadway. She performed in the role from September 27, 2011, to September 23, 2012, and was praised for her strong voice and stage presence.
Her mother, Monique Rance-Helper, works as a professional hair stylist in the entertainment industry. She has styled hair and wigs for The Lion King on Broadway and has also worked on other major productions, including Eclipsed, Once On This Island, The Lightning Thief, the In the Heights movie, and the TV series POSE.
Imani is survived by her three-year-old son, her parents, and her two younger siblings. Imani Dia Smith is remembered for her talent, kindness, and the joy she brought to the stage at a young age.
Who Was Imani Dia Smith?
Imani Dia Smith was born around the year 2000 and raised in Edison, New Jersey. She grew up in a creative and supportive household that encouraged her artistic abilities. Despite limited public records about her early schooling, Imani’s passion for performance was evident from a very young age.
She was known among peers and mentors as kind, disciplined, and generous—qualities that helped her stand out even as a child performer in a highly competitive industry.
Family Background and Upbringing
Imani was raised by her parents, Monique Rance-Helper and Rawni Helper. Her mother worked as a professional hair stylist and contributed to major theatrical productions, including The Lion King, which exposed Imani early to the world of stage performance.
She grew up alongside two younger siblings in a close-knit family environment. Her parents strongly supported her creative ambitions while also emphasizing balance, family values, and personal growth.
Broadway Breakthrough: Young Nala in The Lion King
Imani’s most notable achievement came at just 11 years old, when she made her Broadway debut as Young Nala in Disney’s The Lion King. She performed at the Minskoff Theatre from September 27, 2011, to September 23, 2012.
Her performance earned praise within the theater community for its emotional depth and vocal strength. Audiences and colleagues alike remembered her as a natural performer who brought joy and sincerity to the stage.
Life After Broadway
Unlike many child actors, Imani did not pursue a long-term acting career after her Broadway run. Instead, she chose a more private life away from public attention. Friends and family described her as focused on personal growth and family, rather than fame.
This decision reflected a grounded personality shaped by strong family support and life beyond the spotlight.
Motherhood and Personal Life
Imani became a mother at a young age and welcomed a son, who was three years old in 2025. Motherhood became a central part of her identity, and she devoted herself to raising her child with love and care.
She largely stayed out of public view, prioritizing her family and personal responsibilities while maintaining close relationships with her siblings and parents.
The Tragic Death of Imani Dia Smith
On Sunday morning, December 22, 2025, Imani Dia Smith was found critically injured inside a residence in Edison, New Jersey, following a 911 call. She was rushed to Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital in New Brunswick, where she was pronounced dead at the age of 25.
Authorities ruled her death a homicide. The incident was described as non-random and connected to a domestic dispute. The investigation remains ongoing, and officials have not publicly released a motive.
Arrest and Charges
Imani’s boyfriend, Jordan D. Jackson-Small, age 35, was arrested at the scene. He was charged with:
- First-degree murder
- Second-degree endangering the welfare of a child
- Third-degree possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose
- Fourth-degree unlawful possession of a weapon
Officials confirmed that Imani’s young son was present during the incident, which added to the seriousness of the charges.
Community Response and GoFundMe Support
Following Imani’s death, her family launched a GoFundMe campaign to help cover funeral expenses, therapy costs, support for her siblings, care for her son, and legal expenses related to pursuing justice.
The campaign received strong support from the Broadway community and the public. Tributes poured in remembering Imani as a bright, gentle, and loving spirit whose talent left a lasting impression.
Key Points
The GoFundMe campaign was created by Imani Dia Smith’s aunt, Kira Helper, not a general family representative.
The fundraiser has a specific financial goal of $55,000, with over 609 individual donations recorded as of Dec. 24, 2025.
Funds are also allocated for crime scene cleanup, a detail rarely mentioned in standard reports.
The GoFundMe includes support for Imani’s dog, in addition to care for her young son.
Her mother, Monique, has an extensive professional career, with over 25 film and TV credits as a hairstylist since 2010.
Monique’s recent work includes The Housemaid (2025) and the horror film Smile (2022).
Prosecutors formally announced the arrest two days after the incident, on Dec. 23.
The statement emphasized giving Imani’s parents financial stability during the grieving process, highlighting the emotional toll on the family.
The case information was jointly released by the Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office and Edison Police Department.
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Legacy of Imani Dia Smith
Though her career was brief, Imani Dia Smith’s legacy lives on through her unforgettable Broadway performance and, most importantly, through her son. She is remembered not only as a talented young actress, but as a devoted mother, daughter, and sister.
Her story also highlights the importance of addressing domestic violence and supporting families affected by sudden loss. Imani’s light, kindness, and artistry continue to be honored by those who knew her and those moved by her story.
Conclusion
Imani Dia Smith’s life was marked by early success, quiet strength, and deep love for her family. From her memorable role as Young Nala on Broadway to her dedication as a mother, she leaves behind a powerful and emotional legacy. As her family seeks justice and healing, Imani is remembered for the joy she brought to the stage and the love she shared off it.
FAQs
Who responded to the stabbing incident involving Imani Dia Smith?
Local law enforcement responded to a 911 call and were assisted by the Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office during the investigation.
Where exactly did the incident involving Imani Dia Smith take place?
The stabbing occurred inside a private residence in Edison, New Jersey, not a public venue or theater location.
Did authorities release details about what led to the stabbing?
No. Investigators have not publicly disclosed the cause, motive, or circumstances leading to the stabbing.
Were other people present at the scene when police arrived?
Officials have not confirmed whether other individuals were present at the residence at the time of the incident.
How long did Imani Dia Smith perform in The Lion King on Broadway?
She portrayed Young Nala for nearly one year, from September 27, 2011, to September 23, 2012.
How did authorities confirm Imani Dia Smith’s identity and role?
Her Broadway credits and identity were confirmed through official theater records, including Playbill listings.
Has the Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office provided further updates?
As of now, no additional investigative details or updates have been released to the public.
Was the incident described as random by authorities?
Authorities did not describe the incident as random and stated that the investigation is ongoing.
How has the Broadway community responded to her death?
Members of the theater community have shared tributes online, remembering her as a gifted and kind performer.
Is there an official source documenting her Broadway tenure?
Yes. Her performance history is officially documented by Playbill, the industry’s primary theatrical record.
