Angelman syndrome is a rare genetic disorder that mainly affects the nervous system and causes developmental delays, speech difficulties, and movement problems. The condition has recently gained more public attention after actor Colin Farrell shared that his eldest son, James, lives with Angelman syndrome. Because of James, now 21, his father speaks openly about the challenges and joys of raising a child with this diagnosis. Farrell’s candidness has helped shine a light on the realities faced by families living with rare disorders, emphasising the importance of awareness, support, and understanding about the disorder.
What Happened To Colin Farrell’s Son, James?
Colin Farrell has been especially open about his son James’s journey with Angelman syndrome. In April 2025, Farrell revealed that he and James’s mother, Kim Bordenave, made the difficult decision to place James in a long-term care facility. Farrell explained that this choice was made out of love and concern for James’s future, wanting to ensure he would always have a safe and supportive environment, even if his parents were no longer able to care for him.
“My horror would be, what if I have a heart attack tomorrow, and, God forbid, James’ mother, Kim, has a car crash and she’s taken too, and then James is on his own? Then he’s a ward of the state, and he goes where? We’d have no say in it,” Farrell shared.
Farrell also describes James as a ‘beautiful boy who has differences,’ highlighting his fun, cheeky, and bold personality. Despite being nonverbal and facing challenges with movement, James has worked hard through years of occupational and physical therapy. His journey has inspired The Colin Farrell Foundation, which supports people living with intellectual disabilities.
What Is Angelman Syndrome?
Angelman syndrome is caused by a problem with a gene called UBE3A on chromosome 15. Normally, we inherit one copy of this gene from each parent, but in Angelman syndrome, the copy from the mother is missing or not working properly. This genetic change disrupts brain development and function, leading to the symptoms of the disorder. It is not usually inherited but happens as a new mutation.
Babies with Angelman syndrome typically show signs between 6 and 12 months, such as delayed crawling or babbling. As they grow, they may have little to no speech, intellectual disabilities, and difficulty walking or balancing. Seizures often start between the ages of two and three. Despite these challenges, many children with Angelman syndrome have a joyful demeanour and are easily excited, often smiling and laughing a lot.
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Symptoms and Challenges of Angelman Syndrome
Common symptoms include:
- Developmental delays and intellectual disability
- Limited or no speech
- Movement and balance problems (ataxia)
- Seizures
- Sleep disturbance
- Small head size (microcephaly)
- Frequent smiling and laughter
- Hand-flapping and other abnormal movements
- Light-colored hair and skin in some individuals
- Curved spine (scoliosis) and crossed eyes (strabismus) in some individuals
Managing Angelman Syndrome-1745385610307.jpg "angelman syndrome management")
There is no treatment for Angelman syndrome as of now, so management is symptomatic and developmental. This typically requires a team of professionals such as neurologists, therapists, and special educators. Treatment typically includes:
- Anti-seizure medication to manage epilepsy
- Physical and occupational therapy to enhance movement and coordination
- Speech therapy, frequently employing sign language or communication aids
- Behavioural therapy to treat hyperactivity and attention problems
- Management of sleep using routines and, in some cases, medication
- Special feeding methods for suckers
- Constipation and reflux support
- Scoliosis bracing or surgery, and eye disease when necessary
Conclusion
Angelman syndrome is a relatively uncommon but powerful genetic disorder that affects numerous families throughout the world. Due to the heightened awareness caused by celebrities such as Colin Farrell, more individuals are becoming educated about the problems and optimism associated with this illness. Although there is still no cure, research and palliative care persist in enhancing the lives of those impacted. Early detection, similar to therapy, and supportive networks are still key in assisting individuals with Angelman syndrome to achieve their full capacity and live happy lives.