Colin Farrell, known for his roles on the silver screen, is stepping into a new role as a champion for adults with intellectual disabilities. The actor has announced the launch of the Colin Farrell Foundation, an initiative dedicated to providing support for adult children with intellectual disabilities through advocacy, education, and innovative programs.
Farrell’s home in the hills of Los Angeles is typically a sanctuary from the public eye, but it recently buzzed with activity as the actor invited a journalist to meet his son, James, who has Angelman syndrome—a rare neurogenetic disorder. Amid the hustle, Farrell, 48, kept a close eye on his 20-year-old son, who was outside playing catch with his caregiver. James, who is nonverbal, engaged warmly with the visitor, showcasing the infectious spirit that Farrell describes with palpable pride.
“James lights up when he sees people,” Farrell shared. “And I want the world to be kind to him, to treat him with kindness and respect.”
James, who will turn 21 in September, is nearing the age when many of the support systems available for children with special needs begin to phase out. This impending gap in care has motivated Farrell to take action. “Once your child turns 21, they’re kind of on their own,” Farrell explained. “All the safeguards—special education classes, therapies—disappear, leaving families to navigate this complex world alone.”
The Colin Farrell Foundation aims to fill this void, providing crucial support and resources for families and young adults facing similar challenges. “This is the first time I’ve spoken about this publicly,” Farrell said, his voice tinged with emotion. “I can’t ask James if he’s okay with this, but I believe in his spirit and the kind of young man he is. He has this incredible goodness in his heart.”
Farrell spoke candidly about James’s journey, recounting the hard work and determination his son has shown over the years. “James has worked so hard all his life,” Farrell said. “Whether it’s learning to walk with his jerky gait or feeding himself, he’s had to put in so much effort. I’m proud of him every day because I just think he’s magic.”
For Farrell, the foundation is a deeply personal mission that he’s long envisioned. “I’ve wanted to do something to provide greater opportunities for families like ours, to ensure they receive the support they deserve in all areas of life,” he said. “James and others like him have earned the right to greater individuality, autonomy, and a sense of community.”
As Farrell looks to the future, he holds onto the belief that James would fully support the foundation’s work. “If James knew that by doing this, we could help other families, he’d be all in,” Farrell said with a smile. “This is all because of James—it’s all in his honor.”