Golden Globe and Academy Award winner actor Colin Farrell has shared a personal glimpse into his life, discussing his son James, who lives with Angelman syndrome. This rare neurogenetic disorder has deeply impacted their lives, and for the first time, Farrell is speaking openly about the challenges they face. James was diagnosed as a toddler, and now at 20 years old, he continues to need significant support—support that Farrell, 48, believes is not always readily available.
In an exclusive interview, Farrell expressed his wish for the world to be kind to James, who he says deserves the same respect and care as anyone else. Farrell’s desire to raise awareness about Angelman syndrome stems from this wish, as he hopes to bring more attention to the condition and the needs of those affected by it.
Angelman syndrome, which affects approximately 1 in 15,000 people, is caused by a mutation or deletion of the UBE3A gene on the 15th chromosome. The disorder can result in severe developmental delays, challenges with walking and talking, and a range of other health issues, including seizures, balance problems, and sleep disturbances. These symptoms typically become apparent between 6 and 12 months when a baby may not reach expected milestones, such as crawling or babbling.
Farrell admitted that speaking publicly about his family’s private life is unusual for him, but he felt compelled to do so for James. He believes that if James could understand the potential impact of their story, he would fully support sharing it. Farrell wants to help other families facing similar challenges by raising awareness and promoting a better understanding of Angelman syndrome.
Getting an accurate diagnosis for Angelman syndrome can be difficult. According to the Angelman Syndrome Foundation, half of all individuals with the disorder are initially misdiagnosed due to overlapping symptoms with other conditions, such as autism and cerebral palsy. It often takes until a child is between 3 and 7 years old for a correct diagnosis, confirmed through a genetic blood test.
Despite the lack of a cure, early intervention and symptom management can greatly improve the quality of life for those with Angelman syndrome. Treatments may include anti-seizure medications, various therapies (physical, occupational, speech, and behavioral), and sleep management strategies.
Farrell credits research and community support for helping him learn how to best care for James, who started walking at age 4 and has been seizure-free for a decade. Though nonverbal, James communicates in other ways, feeds himself, and shows affection.
The newly established Colin Farrell Foundation aims to provide resources and build a community for families dealing with Angelman syndrome and other related disorders. Farrell emphasizes the importance of community, noting that connecting with others who share similar experiences is critical for navigating the challenges of rare diseases.
