Colin Farrell has revealed that he does not even fully understand his son James' struggles with a rare neurological disease. The actor's eldest son, 23, was diagnosed with Angelman syndrome when he was a toddler.
The rare genetic disorder primarily affects the nervous system and causes severe physical and intellectual disabilities. During an interview about his latest film on Wednesday's episode of the show 'This Morning', Colin was asked about a special moment caught on camera involving his son.
The actor, 50, explained that James' appearance in the documentary wasn't originally planned, but he felt the parallels between his son's daily challenges and those of the documentary's subject - his longtime friend Emma Fogarty - made it essential to include the footage.
Emma Fogarty lives with a rare genetic condition known as epidermolysis bullosa. This condition causes the skin to become extremely fragile and prone to blistering, which can occur in response to minor injuries or even heat, affecting both the exterior skin and internal linings of the body.
"I've seen up close and personal James' struggles," Colin explained during the interview. "And his struggles, much like Emma's, are things that none of us - not even me as his father - can fully grasp in terms of their depth and nuance.
However, the reality of his struggle is very obvious to anyone watching." The actor emphasized the importance of empathy when witnessing such conditions. "If you see Emma, you see her bandages and you know instantly that the person is struggling.
If you have any kind of empathy as a human being, that visual reality just opens you up to understanding the pain of others," he added. Colin Farrell shares James with his former partner, Kim Bordenave.
The acclaimed Irish actor is also a father to a 17-year-old son, Henry, from his past relationship with his former 'Ondine' co-star, Alicja Bachleda-Curuś. The documentary, which highlights the resilience of those living with rare diseases, has garnered significant attention for its raw portrayal of human endurance.
Farrell has been vocal about using his platform to raise awareness for these conditions, hoping that by sharing his family's story, he can foster a greater sense of community and support for those facing similar medical journeys. As James continues to navigate life with Angelman syndrome, Farrell remains a dedicated advocate for his son's well-being.
The actor frequently speaks about the lessons he has learned from James, noting that his son's perspective on life has profoundly shaped his own approach to challenges and his appreciation for the small, meaningful moments that define human existence.