Hollywood actor Colin Farrell has opened his heart about a major decision involving his son James, who has Angelman syndrome—a rare neurological condition that affects motor skills, speech, and development. Now 21, James requires full-time care, and Colin, 48, says both he and James’s mother, Kim Bordenave, are making plans to ensure his well-being in the years ahead.
In a recent interview with Candis Magazine, the Oscar nominee revealed why they’re seeking out a long-term care facility while they’re still healthy and actively involved.
“It’s a hard decision,” Colin admitted. “Some parents feel they have to do everything themselves, and I respect that. But we asked ourselves—what if something happens to me or Kim? We want James in a place we’ve chosen, somewhere safe and loving, where he feels secure.”
Their hope is to find a residential home that offers James stability and a fulfilling life, while still allowing him to spend time with family and continue doing things he enjoys.
Angelman syndrome is often misdiagnosed in early childhood due to overlapping symptoms with conditions like cerebral palsy. Colin recalled how James showed signs of developmental delay early on—missing milestones like crawling and sitting up—which led to medical testing. By the time he was two and a half, doctors noticed James’s unique behaviors, such as frequent smiling and hand movements, eventually leading to the correct diagnosis.
“I remember asking the doctor, ‘Will he be in pain? How long will he live?’” Colin shared. “Hearing that his life expectancy was normal and that he wouldn’t be in pain brought us real relief.”
James has dealt with several health challenges, including seizures, but with time and care, his family found effective ways to support his needs. “He hasn’t had a serious seizure in over ten years,” Colin noted. “That’s a testament to the great care he’s received.”
In honor of his journey with James, Colin is preparing to launch the Colin Farrell Foundation, aimed at supporting individuals and families living with developmental or intellectual disabilities. While he has kept his family life relatively private, he hopes that opening up can give comfort to others in similar situations.
“James can’t choose to be in the spotlight,” Colin said, “but I believe sharing our story might help other families feel seen and supported.”
He shared touching memories—like when James took his first steps just before turning four. “He walked straight toward me, and I just cried. It was one of the most moving moments of my life.”
James still needs daily assistance and lives with a full-time caregiver. As he approached adulthood, Colin and Kim applied for legal conservatorship to continue advocating for his needs.
Farrell cherishes every step forward. “We still celebrate everything,” he said. “His first words at six, feeding himself at nineteen—it all matters. It’s progress, and it brings us joy.”
Despite the ups and downs, Colin says parenting James has changed his life in ways he never expected. “There’s something incredibly grounding about caring for someone who experiences the world differently. It teaches you patience, perspective, and real love.”
James is Colin’s son from his early 2000s relationship with Kim Bordenave. Colin is also father to another son, Henry, whom he shares with actress Alicja Bachleda-Curuś.
