Colin Farrell Eventually Revealed What is it Like to Be a Dad of Son with Special Needs

Colin Farrell has long guarded his personal life closely, particularly the details about his son, James, who was born with a rare genetic disorder. Recently, Farrell has opened up about his family’s struggles and his Foundation, which he created to support research and aid for those affected by similar conditions. This new openness highlights his deep commitment to his family and the cause he passionately supports.

Colin Farrell’s Los Angeles home is buzzing with an energy that’s both exhilarating and a little overwhelming for the actor. It’s not the typical Hollywood scene he’s used to, but, it’s for a cause close to his heart. Surrounded by photographers and video crews, the 48-year-old actor is keeping a watchful eye on his 20-year-old son, James, who is playing catch in the backyard with his caregiver.

Colin Farrell is the father of two boys: James and Henry. James’s mother is the model Kim Bordenave, but their romance was brief. Despite their split, Farrell is dedicated to ensuring James is supported throughout his life.

Colin and Kim welcomed their son James in 2003. In early 2021, the former couple sought conservatorship for their 17-year-old son, citing in legal documents that James requires daily assistance with tasks like preparing food and dressing, while they oversee his overall health and well-being.

James, who has Angelman syndrome, a rare neurogenetic disorder, is nonverbal, but his expressive eyes speak volumes. When he spots a journalist nearby, he promptly tosses his miniature basketball her way, inviting her into his world with a playful gesture. His joy is infectious, and it’s clear how much this means to Farrell, whose pride in his son swells visibly as he observes the interaction.

“I want the world to be kind to James,” Farrell says earnestly. “I want the world to treat him with kindness and respect.”

To address this gap, Farrell is launching the Colin Farrell Foundation, dedicated to supporting adult children with intellectual disabilities. The foundation will focus on advocacy, education, and creating innovative programs to ensure that these young adults receive the support they need to thrive.

“This is the first time I’ve spoken about it, and obviously the only reason I’m speaking is I can’t ask James if he wants to do this,” Farrell says, his voice tinged with both determination and a father’s concern.

Farrell speaks to James as if he could fully comprehend everything, despite the communication barriers posed by Angelman syndrome. “I speak to James as if he’s 20 and has perfect fluency with the English language and age-appropriate cognitive ability. But I can’t discern a particular answer from him as to whether he’s comfortable with all this or not, so I have to make a call based on knowing James’s spirit and what kind of young man he is, and the goodness that he has in his heart.”

James has faced many challenges in his life, from mastering basic motor skills to feeding himself, and Farrell couldn’t be prouder. “He’s worked so hard all his life, so hard,” Farrell says, reflecting on the effort his son puts into everyday tasks.

“When he started feeding himself for the first time, his face looked like a Jackson Pollock by the end of it. But he gets it in, he feeds himself beautifully. I’m proud of him every day because I just think he’s magic.”

The foundation is something Farrell has wanted to do for years. “For years, I’ve wanted to do something in the realm of providing greater opportunities for families who have a child with special needs, to receive the support that they deserve,” he says. “James, and those like him, have earned the right to have a greater degree of individuality and autonomy in life, and a greater degree of community.”

People showed a lot of support to Colin’s initiative and himself as a father and as a founder of such an organization.

• I have a lot of admiration and respect for Mr. Farrell. He is behaving exactly like a good father should be. His son is lucky to have him and deep inside his son knows it. © barbara6477lopez / Instagram
• As a parent of a teenager with 22q Deletion Syndrome — Thank you for doing this! I wish there were more people like you that care about our kids and their future! © cheryl1162 / Instagram

Celebrities have a big platform to reach many people, which is a great opportunity. When they use this chance to talk about important issues, like helping people with disabilities, it can make a big difference. Their voices can raise awareness and encourage support for those who need it most.