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Broadway Star Imani Dia Smith Fatally Stabbed; Boyfriend Charged

12/24/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Imani Dia Smith, a Broadway actress known for playing Young Nala in The Lion King, was fatally stabbed on December 21 in Edison, New Jersey.
Her boyfriend, Jordan D. Jackson-Small, has been charged with first-degree murder and offenses.
Smith is survived by her 3-year-old son and family.
A GoFundMe started by her aunt has raised $46,000 to cover funeral costs, trauma therapy, and support for her son, with a $55,000 goal.

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Story summary

Imani Dia Smith, a Broadway actress known for playing Young Nala in The Lion King, was fatally stabbed on December 21 in Edison, New Jersey.
Her boyfriend, Jordan D. Jackson-Small, has been charged with first-degree murder and offenses.
Smith is survived by her 3-year-old son and family.
A GoFundMe started by her aunt has raised $46,000 to cover funeral costs, trauma therapy, and support for her son, with a $55,000 goal.