Colin Farrell and Kim Bordenave’s son James, born in 2003, was diagnosed with Angelman syndrome at just 2½ years old. This rare neurogenetic disorder can lead to severe developmental delays. Now approaching his 21st birthday, James is a lively and determined young adult, as his father recently shared with Irish Independent. Despite the challenges, Farrell is proud of his son’s progress and spirit.

James’s condition has meant that, as he nears adulthood, many of the support systems that helped him throughout his childhood will no longer be available. Farrell expressed his concerns to People about the transition: “Once your child turns 21, they’re kind of on their own,” he noted, highlighting the lack of resources and support for adults with special needs.

Reflecting on James’s early years, Farrell admitted that he and Bordenave were initially unaware of the symptoms of Angelman syndrome. It wasn’t until James began missing developmental milestones that they grew concerned. Farrell vividly recalls the emotional moment James took his first steps just before his fourth birthday.

The actor, who also has a 15-year-old son, Henry, with his former partner Alicja Bachleda-Curuś, gained further understanding of developmental differences when Henry was born. He remarked on the contrast between James’s quiet infancy and Henry’s cooing, which highlighted the challenges he had not initially recognized.

To address these challenges, Colin Farrell has established the Colin Farrell Foundation, aimed at raising awareness and improving support for adults with intellectual disabilities. The foundation focuses on creating community and residential opportunities for young adults like James, ensuring they are integrated and valued members of society. Farrell emphasizes the importance of genuine community engagement and the need for individuals with special needs to enjoy greater individuality and autonomy in their lives.