Actor Colin Farrell is known for being seen and heard on the big screen, but his next venture is about ensuring others, particularly those with intellectual disabilities, are treated with the same respect. In an interview with , the Irish actor opened up for the first time about his son, who was born with Angelman syndrome, and why he's starting a foundation to provide support for others like the 20-year-old and their families. "I want the world to be kind to James," the actor told the publication about his son, who is nonverbal.
"I want the world to treat him with kindness and respect." Angelman syndrome is a rare, incurable neurogenetic disorder that can cause intellectual disability, speech and balance problems, developmental delays and possible seizures, according to the . Though life expectancy is relatively normal, complications with the syndrome can include hyperactivity, sleep issues, scoliosis and obesity.
Despite these issues, those with Angelman syndrome tend to have a happy and excitable attitude, often lighting up a room with their smile and laughter, according to the . In James' case, Farrell told People he was a fairly "silent" baby and was taken to a doctor after he wasn't hitting milestones. After initially being diagnosed with cerebral palsy, a doctor who noticed James' outbreaks of laughter diagnosed him with Angelman syndrome at 2 1/2 years old, Farrell told .
Farrell said the diagnosis allowed the family the opportunity to have better knowledge and a comm.