Former ‘Lion King’ child star Imani Dia Smith, 25, stabbed to death

Former Broadway child actress Imani Dia Smith, known for starring in The Lion King, has died at age 25. Smith was found with stab wounds at a residence in Edison, New Jersey, on December 21 and was pronounced dead at a nearby hospital.

Her boyfriend, 35-year-old Jordan D. Jackson-Small, was arrested on December 23. He has been charged with first-degree murder and multiple weapons offenses, according to the Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office and Edison Police.

A GoFundMe organized by her aunt states Smith is survived by her three-year-old son, parents, two younger siblings, and extended family. The fundraiser aims to cover funeral costs, crime scene cleanup, trauma therapy, legal fees, and care for her son and dog.

The page described her as leaving behind a family and community “who loved her so very much.” Authorities continue to investigate the stabbing reported via a 911 call.