Former ‘Lion King’ Broadway Star Imani Smith Dies in Stabbing
A GoFundMe campaign has rapidly raised over $70,000 following the tragic death of Imani Smith, a former Broadway performer who captivated audiences as Young Nala in Disney’s “The Lion King.”
Imani Smith, 26, of Edison, New Jersey, died on Sunday, December 21, after being discovered with stab wounds at a residence on Grove Avenue, according to a release from the Middlesex County, New Jersey, Prosecutor’s Office. Authorities responded to a 911 call received just after 9:15 a.m.
Upon arrival, first responders found Smith suffering from injuries and transported her to Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital, where she was pronounced dead. A senior official stated that the incident is not believed to be a random act of violence, indicating a pre-existing relationship between the victim and the suspect.
Jordan D. Jackson-Small, 35, also of Edison, has been arrested in connection with Smith’s death. According to authorities, Jackson-Small is facing charges including first-degree murder and third-degree possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose. He is currently being held at the Middlesex County Adult Corrections Center. Counsel for Jackson-Small at the Middlesex County public defenders office has been contacted for comment.
Smith’s father, Rawni Helper, revealed in a conversation with CNN on Saturday that Jackson-Small is the father of Smith’s 3-year-old son. This detail adds a heartbreaking dimension to the tragedy, highlighting the profound loss experienced by the child.
From 2011 to 2012, Smith graced the stage in “The Lion King,” Broadway’s third-longest running show, as noted by Playbill. She is remembered as a “triple-threat performer,” excelling in acting, singing, and dancing. A post on the GoFundMe page eloquently described her as someone who brought “joy, creativity, and light” to the world through her performances.
The GoFundMe account, established by Smith’s aunt, Kira Helper, poignantly stated that Smith “had her whole life ahead of her,” describing her as “a vivacious, loving and fiercely talented person.” The campaign aims to support Smith’s family during this incredibly difficult time.
Smith is survived by her son, her parents, her two younger siblings, and a large network of friends and family who deeply cherished her. The outpouring of support on the GoFundMe page reflects the significant impact she had on those around her.
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CNN’s Sarah Dewberry contributed to this report.
