Imani Dia Smith has sent shockwaves through the Broadway community and beyond, raising painful questions about domestic violence, family, and the life she left behind. Imani, a former Broadway child actress best remembered for portraying Young Nala in Disney’s The Lion King, passed away on December 21, 2025, at just 25 years old. Her untimely death has not only devastated her loved ones but has also sparked a broader conversation about intimate partner violence and its lasting consequences.
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Imani Dia Smith Age, Height and Weight
How old was Imani Dia Smith? She was 25 years old, in 2025. She was born on December 21, 2025 in USA. She stands at a height of 5 feet 5 inches tall and weighs around 50 Kg or 49 lbs.
Imani Dia Smith Death Cause
At the time of her death, Imani Dia Smith was living in Edison, New Jersey. Authorities were called to her residence following reports of a stabbing and found her critically injured. She was rushed to Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital in New Brunswick, where doctors later pronounced her dead. According to Middlesex County prosecutors, the investigation quickly pointed to her former boyfriend, Jordan D. Jackson-Small, as a suspect.
He was arrested and charged with first-degree mu*der, along with additional charges including second-degree endangering the welfare of a child and third-degree possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose. Officials clarified that the incident was not random, stating that Smith and Jackson-Small were known to each other prior to the attack. The investigation remains ongoing, and further details regarding the motive have yet to be released.
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Imani Dia Smith Boyfriend
Imani Dia Smith’s personal life have naturally surfaced in the wake of her death. There is no public record confirming that she was ever married, nor has it been officially stated whether Jordan Jackson-Small was the father of her child. Imani is survived by her 3-year-old son, who is now under the care of his grandparents. Tragically, the child was present in the home at the time of the incident, though authorities have not disclosed whether he witnessed the attack.
Imani Dia Smith Parents and Family
Imani Dia Smith came from a deeply creative and close-knit family. Her mother, Monique Rance-Helper, is a well-respected Broadway hair and wig stylist who has worked on major productions such as Pose, In the Heights, and Once on This Island. Her father, Rawni Helper, has largely remained out of the public eye.
Imani also leaves behind two younger siblings, about whom little information has been made public. In the aftermath of her passing, her aunt, Kira Helper, organized a GoFundMe campaign on behalf of Imani’s parents to help cover funeral costs, trauma therapy, and legal expenses. The fundraiser’s goal was initially set at $50,000 and later increased to $55,000 as support poured in.
Imani Dia Smith Net Worth
How much was the net worth of Imani Dia Smith? Beyond the headlines, Imani Dia Smith is remembered for her immense talent and promise. She performed as Young Nala in The Lion King from September 2011 to September 2012, captivating audiences with her acting, singing, and dancing abilities at a young age.
