Colin Farrell’s life at home is filled with activity, which isn’t typically where he feels most comfortable. The actor, now 48, manages a bustling environment at his Los Angeles home, while also keeping a close eye on his 20-year-old son, James, who has Angelman syndrome, a rare genetic disorder that affects the nervous system.
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James, who doesn’t speak, enjoys playing catch in the backyard with his caregiver. He includes others in his game by tossing the ball to a nearby journalist, showing his playful and inclusive nature.
The bond between Farrell and his son is evident, especially when James’ face lights up upon seeing his dad. Farrell’s pride in his son is palpable, and he expresses a deep wish for the world to treat James with kindness and respect. This desire to protect and provide for his son has motivated Farrell to share details about their life together for the first time.
As James approaches his 21st birthday, Farrell faces a new challenge. At 21, James will no longer be eligible for many of the support systems available to children with special needs.
Farrell explains that when children like James become adults, they often lose access to essential services, leaving them to navigate a world that isn’t always accommodating. Farrell stresses the importance of integrating these young adults into society rather than leaving them behind.
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To address this gap, Farrell has founded the Colin Farrell Foundation, dedicated to supporting adults with intellectual disabilities. The foundation aims to provide advocacy, education, and innovative programs to help these individuals lead more independent and fulfilling lives.
Farrell admits that talking about this publicly is a first for him, but he feels compelled to do so because James cannot voice his own preferences regarding such a decision.
Farrell speaks to James as if he fully understands everything, despite his limitations. He believes he knows his son well enough to make decisions in his best interest, including whether to share their story.
James has faced many challenges, working hard to develop skills that most people take for granted. Farrell describes moments of pride as he watches his son achieve milestones, no matter how small they may seem.
The foundation has been a long-standing goal for Farrell, who has always wanted to create opportunities for families with special needs children. He believes that James, and others like him, deserve more independence and a stronger sense of community.
Farrell is convinced that if James could articulate his feelings, he would wholeheartedly support the idea of the foundation, understanding that it is meant to help others in similar situations.
In Farrell’s view, everything he’s doing through the foundation is in honor of James, who continues to inspire him daily. The foundation stands as a testament to the love and dedication Farrell has for his son and the broader community of families affected by similar challenges.
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