Colin Farrell emotionally opens up about son James, 20, and his very private battle with Angelman syndrome

Colin Farrell is sharing rare and emotional insight into his life with his older son James, 20, who has privately been living with Angelman syndrome. #ColinFarrellSonAngelman

Per Mayo Clinic, Angelman syndrome is a neurogenetic disorder that “causes delayed development, problems with speech and balance, mental disability, and, sometimes, seizures. Many people with Angelman syndrome smile and laugh often. They tend to be happy and easy to excite.”

The actor, 48, spoke with People for a new all-encompassing conversation that took place in his own home in Los Angeles, and captured his sweet bond with his son.

While seeing him play basketball with his son and lay on the grass with him in their garden, he told the publication: “I want the world to be kind to James. I want the world to treat him with kindness and respect.”

For the first time, the Irish star shared that he was launching the Colin Farrell Foundation, an emotional move inspired by his son, for providing support, advocacy, and programs for adult children with intellectual and mental disabilities.

He candidly said: “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.”

“I mean, I can. I speak to James as if he’s 20 and has perfect fluency with the English language and age-appropriate cognitive ability. But I can’t discern a particular answer from him as to whether he’s comfortable with all this or not, so I have to make a call based on knowing James’ spirit and what kind of young man he is and the goodness that he has in his heart.”

Furthermore, Colin Farrell son Angelman story highlights the importance of support and understanding. #ColinFarrellSonAngelman