Imani Dia Smith was a talented American actress and singer who gained fame as a child star on Broadway. She was best known for playing the role of Young Nala in the hit musical The Lion King. Tragically, Imani passed away in December 2025 at the age of 25. Her sudden death shocked the theater community and her fans. She was a beloved daughter, sister, and mother who left a lasting mark on the stage with her vibrant performance and beautiful voice.
Who is Imani Dia?
Imani Dia Smith was a gifted performer who started her career at a very young age. She was a Broadway actress known for her energy and talent. In the world of theater, she was famous for her role in Disney’s The Lion King. She played the character of Young Nala, a role that requires great singing and acting skills.
Beyond her life on stage, Imani was a dedicated mother to a young son. She came from a family that worked in the entertainment industry, which helped nurture her love for the arts. Friends and family describe her as a “triple-threat” performer because she could sing, dance, and act exceptionally well. Her life was cut short, but she is remembered for the joy and light she brought to her audience and her loved ones.
Lion King Child Actress Age – How Old is Imani Dia?
Imani Dia Smith was 25 years old at the time of her death. She was born around the year 2000. Sadly, her life ended on December 21, 2025. She died in Edison, New Jersey. Her young age makes her passing even more heartbreaking for her community.
Being only 25, Imani had her whole life ahead of her. She achieved professional success on Broadway when she was just a child, around 11 or 12 years old. Growing up in the spotlight gave her unique experiences, but she remained close to her family. Her birthday and specific birth date details are often celebrated by her family, though the exact date is not always public. She is survived by her young son, who was only three years old when she passed away.
Imani Dia Biography / Wiki
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Imani Dia Smith |
| Famous Role | Young Nala (The Lion King) |
| Profession | Actress, Singer, Dancer |
| Age at Death | 25 Years Old |
| Date of Death | December 21, 2025 |
| Place of Death | Edison, New Jersey, USA |
| Cause of Death | Homicide (Stabbing) |
| Mother | Monique Rance-Helper |
| Father | Rawni Helper |
| Child | One Son (3 years old) |
| Nationality | American |
Early Life and Background
Imani Dia Smith grew up in a loving and creative environment. She was born in the United States and raised with a strong connection to the arts. Her mother, Monique Rance-Helper, works as a hairstylist in the entertainment industry. This connection likely introduced Imani to the world of performance early on.
From a young age, Imani showed a natural talent for the stage. She loved to sing and dance, often entertaining her family and friends. Her parents supported her dreams and helped her navigate the competitive world of Broadway. Growing up in the New Jersey and New York area gave her easy access to theater districts. This proximity allowed her to audition for big roles and eventually land a spot in one of the most famous musicals in the world. Her childhood was filled with rehearsals and performances, shaping her into a disciplined artist.
Imani Dia Education
While specific details about Imani Dia Smith’s school are private, her education included rigorous training in the performing arts. To be on Broadway as a child, she had to balance her regular schoolwork with professional training. Child actors often attend special schools or have tutors on set to ensure they keep up with their studies.
In addition to academic learning, Imani received specialized coaching in singing, acting, and dancing. This training transformed her into a professional performer capable of handling the demands of a Broadway show. Her teachers and vocal coaches helped refine her natural abilities. This dedication to learning her craft allowed her to perform live in front of thousands of people night after night. Her “education” was not just in a classroom but also on the stage of the Minskoff Theatre in New York City.
Imani Dia Career Journey
Imani Dia Smith’s career reached a major high point when she was cast in The Lion King on Broadway. She played the character Young Nala from September 2011 to September 2012. This role is very important in the show, as Young Nala is a key character in the first act of the musical.
Performing on Broadway is a dream for many actors, and Imani achieved this before she was a teenager. Critics and audiences praised her for her spirited performance. She brought sass, energy, and a beautiful voice to the role. After her time in The Lion King, she continued to be involved in the arts. She was known as a “triple threat,” meaning she excelled in acting, singing, and dancing. Although her career was tragically cut short, her work on Broadway remains a significant achievement that inspired many young black girls to pursue theater.
Imani Dia Movies and TV Shows
Imani Dia Smith is primarily known for her work in theater rather than in movies or television shows. Her most significant credit is the Broadway production of The Lion King. While many child actors move on to TV or film, Imani’s legacy is firmly rooted in her live stage performances.
However, her family has deep ties to the screen industry. Her mother, Monique, has worked as a hairstylist on over 25 major film and television productions, including movies like Smile (2022) and The Housemaid (2024). While Imani herself did not have a long list of movie credits, her presence in the entertainment world was felt through her stage work. She focused her talents on live performance, where she could connect directly with an audience.
Imani Dia Physical Appearance
Imani Dia Smith was a beautiful and vibrant young woman. At 25 years old, she had a youthful and energetic presence. Descriptions from friends and family often mention her bright smile and the “light” she brought into a room. As a performer, she was fit and active, capable of the physical demands of dancing on stage.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Age | 25 Years Old |
| Hair Color | Black |
| Eye Color | Dark Brown |
| Build | Slim / Athletic |
| Distinctive Feature | Bright Smile |
The Lion King Actress Imani Dia Family
Imani Dia Smith came from a close-knit and supportive family. Her death has left a huge void in their lives. She was a devoted mother to a young son, who was only three years old when she passed away. Her love for her child was a defining part of her adult life.
Her parents, Monique Rance-Helper and Rawni Helper, were her biggest supporters. They helped her achieve her Broadway dreams and stood by her throughout her life. Imani also had two younger siblings, making her a big sister who likely set an example for them. The tragedy of her death involved her boyfriend, Jordan D. Jackson-Small, who was charged in connection with her passing. This heartbreaking event has brought her extended family, including her aunt Kira Helper, together to support her son and preserve her memory.
| Family Member | Name | Relationship |
|---|---|---|
| Mother | Monique Rance-Helper | Mom |
| Father | Rawni Helper | Dad |
| Child | Name Not Public (Son) | Son (3 Years Old) |
| Siblings | Names Not Public | 2 Younger Siblings |
| Aunt | Kira Helper | Aunt |
| Partner | Jordan D. Jackson-Small | Boyfriend (Charged) |
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