What is Angelman Syndrome? Colin Farrell opens up about his son's rare condition and long-term care decision
Oscar-nominated actor Colin Farrell has shared an emotional update on his son James, who lives with Angelman syndrome—a rare genetic condition that affects the nervous system, leading to developmental delays, limited speech, and impaired coordination.
As James transitions into adulthood, Farrell and his former partner, Kim Bordenave, have made the difficult decision to move him into a long-term care facility.
Angelman syndrome typically manifests between six and twelve months of age, with early signs including a lack of crawling or babbling. As children grow, symptoms often include difficulty walking, seizures, and intellectual disability. Many affected individuals display a joyful demeanour, with frequent smiling and laughter, and tend to be easily excited.
Speaking to Candis Magazine, Farrell, 48, explained their decision: 'It's tricky – some parents will say, 'I want to take care of my child myself,' and I respect that. But my horror would be, what if I have a heart attack tomorrow, and, God forbid, James' mother, Kim, has a car crash... and then James is on his own?'
Farrell added, 'We'd have no say in it. We want him to find somewhere where he can have a full and happy life, where he feels connected.' The couple is currently seeking a facility where James can thrive while still receiving visits from his family.
The decision comes as James recently turned 21, ageing out of many publicly supported care programmes available to children with disabilities. Farrell, a long-time advocate for special needs families, also founded a foundation in honour of James to support intellectual disability services.
Farrell has spoken movingly about James's milestones, including the moment he first walked. 'He took, like, six steps, and I burst into tears,' he recalled.
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