Colin Farrell starts foundation in honor of son with Angelman syndrome, opens up about their life

Colin Farrell has launched the Colin Farrell Foundation to support adult children with intellectual disabilities through advocacy, education, and innovative programs. The actor's 20-year-old son, James, who has Angelman syndrome, inspired this initiative. Speaking to PEOPLE, Farrell, 48, shared his experiences and the challenges families face when support systems for children with special needs diminish as they age.

James, who is nonverbal, was seen playing catch with his caregiver during the interview, and Farrell expressed his desire for the world to treat his son with kindness and respect. "I want the world to be kind to James," Farrell said. "I want the world to treat him with kindness and respect."

Farrell highlighted the difficulties that arise when children with special needs turn 21 and lose access to many support systems. "Once your child turns 21, they’re kind of on their own," he explained. "All the safeguards that are put in place, special ed classes, that all goes away, so you’re left with a young adult who should be an integrated part of our modern society and more often than not is left behind."

The foundation aims to bridge this gap, providing greater opportunities for these young adults to achieve individuality and autonomy. Farrell spoke about his decision to open up about his and James's life, stating, "This is the first time I’ve spoken about it, and obviously the only reason I’m speaking is I can’t ask James if he wants to do this."

Reflecting on James's hard work and progress, Farrell expressed pride in his son’s achievements. "He has worked so hard all his life," Farrell said. "I’m proud of him every day, because I just think he’s magic."

Farrell believes that if James understood the potential impact of their story, he would support the initiative wholeheartedly. "This is all because of James—it’s all in his honor," he added.