Former The Lion King Broadway child actress Imani Dia Smith has tragically passed away at the age of 25 following a stabbing incident in Edison, New Jersey.
Authorities confirmed that Imani, who portrayed Young Nala in Disney’s long running Broadway production between 2011 and 2012, was discovered with stab wounds after police responded to an emergency call on Sunday. She was rushed to Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital, where she was later pronounced dead.
The Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office disclosed that investigations are still ongoing, with officials yet to determine the full circumstances surrounding the incident. At the time of reporting, it has not been confirmed whether anyone else was present when the stabbing occurred.
On Tuesday, police arrested Jordan D. Jackson-Small, 35, charging him with first degree murder, endangering the welfare of a child, and multiple weapons related offences. Prosecutors stated that the suspect was someone known to Imani. It remains unclear if he has obtained legal representation.
Imani Dia Smith began her acting career at a very young age and rose to prominence after joining the Broadway cast of The Lion King. Her role as Young Nala earned her recognition and placed her among a select group of child performers to appear on one of theatre’s most prestigious stages.
Her untimely death has sent shockwaves through the entertainment community and beyond, as tributes continue to pour in for the young actress whose talent shone brightly early in life.
