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Colin Farrell’s Eldest Son James: The Inspiring 21-Year-Old With Angelman Syndrome Drives Father’s Sobriety

Colin Farrell has two children from relationships with two distinct women. One of them is his firstborn son, James Farrell, whom he had with American model Kim Bordenave. Here’s some information about James Farrell.

While Colin Farrell is a highly praised actor in Hollywood, off-duty he shines as an attentive father to his two boys.

Following his victory as Best Male Actor in a Limited or Anthology Series at the 2025 Golden Globe Awards for his performance in
The Penguin
,
the 48-year-old
spoke behind the scenes with People magazine regarding his commitment to prioritizing his children. He stated, “To be honest, I’m not sure if I feel true pride, but this doesn’t mean I lack pride; it’s just more complex than that. I am certainly proud of my life,” he explained. “What brings me genuine joy is seeing my children grow into fine young men and observing them tackle the challenges of the world.”

Farrell has offspring from two separate relationships. Below is the information we have regarding his older child, 21-year-old James Farrell.

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James Farrell came into this world in 2003.

James Padraig Farrell, Colin Farrell’s eldest child, came into this world on September 12, 2003.

He shares custody of James with his former girlfriend, American model Kim Bordenave. In 2004, Colin told the Irish Examiner, “I love [James] and he will always play an important part in my life indefinitely. He will surely understand who his father is. For me, being a dad represents the pinnacle of achievement.”


He has a brother

James has a sibling who is his junior, named
Henry Tadeusz Farrell
Colin introduced Henry to the world alongside his former partner, the Polish actress Alicja Bachleda-Curuscus, on October 7, 2009.


As a child, he was diagnosed with Angelman syndrome.

In 2007, several years following James’ birth, Colin spoke openly regarding his son’s diagnosis of Angelman syndrome, a rare genetic disorder impacting the nervous system and leading to significant physical and cognitive impairments, as stated by the NHS.

When I notice his differences compared to other typical four-year-olds during their interactions, then it hits me again,” Farrell shared with the Irish Independent. “Yet right from the start, I’ve always believed he is exactly as he should be.

He mentioned that his son exhibits “remarkable bravery” and expressed feeling “extremely grateful” for having him in his life. He also stated, “My son has never been seen by me as someone who is disabled.” He continued, reflecting on how the concepts of special needs, disabilities, and normalcy intertwine.

Last August,
The Batman
The actor spoke with People magazine about James’ achievements and significant moments. “Despite facing no cognitive challenges or developmental hurdles, he puts in immense effort to reach common goals,” he shared with the magazine. “His accomplishments are remarkable; he’s an exceptionally balanced and joyful individual. Truly exceptional.”


His dad is extremely overprotective towards him.

Similar to numerous dads worldwide, Colin Farrell exhibits strong protectiveness towards his kids. Fatherhood played a crucial role in helping this accomplished actor achieve sobriety. He shared with People magazine, “When James turned around age two, he became a significant factor in my decision to stop drinking. Because being under the influence left me incapable of even being a proper companion, let alone a parent for a kid who required so much attention. Despite having lots of enjoyable moments during those times, I knew something needed to change.”
much younger
, yet during some periods it became quite bleak, and I was moving swiftly in one particular direction.”

He mentioned that “without my sobriety, I wouldn’t have been capable of being present for James and relishing the wonder of his journey or supporting him as effectively as I do.”


His father started a foundation to assist individuals with comparable health issues.

In the previous year, Farrell established the Colin Farrell Foundation, aiming to “[reshape] the lives of those who live with intellectual and developmental disabilities.”

The timing seems perfect, and it excites me,” the actor shared with People magazine back in August 2024. “My primary wish is for people around the globe to show kindness towards my child, treating him with both consideration and respect.

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The article initially appeared on the South China Morning Post (www.scmp.com), which is the premier source for news coverage of China and Asia.

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