Colin Farrell Starts Foundation for Adults with Disabilities Like His Son

Colin Farrell is stepping up to assist individuals who, like his son James, are affected by Angelman syndrome.

Farrell’s 20-year-old son James is affected by this rare neurogenetic condition. James is nonverbal and relies on support from a live-in caretaker, Farrell shared in a recent interview.

James’ mother is Farrell’s ex-girlfriend, model Kim Bordenave.

As James will soon turn 21, he will lose access to several support systems designed for children with special needs.

“Once your child turns 21, they’re kind of on their own,” Farrell explains. “All the safeguards and support systems disappear, leaving these young adults, who deserve to be integrated into society, often abandoned.”

Farrell aims to address this gap with his new initiative.

The Irish actor is launching the Colin Farrell Foundation. The foundation’s goal is to advocate for, raise awareness about, educate, and provide programs for families of adult children with intellectual disabilities.

The foundation hopes to establish accessible, community-based housing and day programs for adults with intellectual disabilities. Additionally, it aims to open a camp for children with intellectual disabilities and their families.

“For years, I’ve wanted to offer more opportunities to families with children who have special needs, ensuring they get the support they deserve,” Farrell shared.

Farrell believes individuals like his son James deserve “a greater degree of individuality, autonomy, and community inclusion.”

“I want the world to be kind to James,” Farrell expresses. “I hope the world treats him with kindness and respect.”

Angelman syndrome is a rare neurogenetic disorder caused by the loss of function of the UBE3A gene. The disorder impacts roughly 500,000 people globally. Symptoms typically start appearing between 6 to 12 months of age.

According to the Mayo Clinic, the condition causes delayed development, speech and balance problems, mental disability, and sometimes seizures. Many individuals with Angelman syndrome often smile and laugh and tend to be happy and easily excited.

The Cleveland Clinic notes that people with Angelman syndrome often have distinct facial characteristics, including:

• Small head
• Broad and short skull
• Wide mouth
• Large tongue
• Spaced-out teeth
• Large lower jaw

The Mayo Clinic also reports other symptoms such as:

• Little to no speech
• Difficulty walking, balancing, and moving
• Feeding challenges
• Difficulty sleeping
• Tongue thrusting
• Seizures
• Stiff or jerky movements

The Angelman Syndrome Foundation states, “People with Angelman syndrome generally have a happy and excitable demeanor. They light up a room with their smile and laughter.”

Source: People, Angelman Syndrome Foundation, Mayo Clinic, Cleveland Clinic