CBeebies star Justin Fletcher, best known for playing Mr Tumble on the children's programme Something Special, is reportedly in a relationship with his co-star Samantha Dorrance, who is more than 20 years his junior. The 55-year-old comedian is said to be 'madly in love' with Dorrance, 34, who plays Tootsie, his alter-ego's best friend.
Details of the Relationship
A source close to the couple revealed: 'Justin and Samantha are madly in love and couldn't be happier. They are both dedicated performers and bonded over their love of musical theatre.' According to reports, Dorrance has moved into Fletcher's £2.5 million farmhouse, and the age gap is 'not an issue' for either of them.
The couple were recently seen checking into The Mount Country Manor Hotel & Golf in Wolverhampton. An insider added: 'Justin and Samantha's friends are thrilled they have found love with each other. For Justin, Samantha is 'The One'. Justin was single for a while before he reconnected with Samantha and it went from there. They enjoy a quiet life on the farm when they're not out performing. The farm is their sanctuary and where they both feel happiest.'
Friends and castmates on tour are aware of the relationship. 'It's wonderful to see Justin so happy. Samantha is the best thing that has ever happened to him,' the insider said.
Background on Samantha Dorrance
Samantha Dorrance made her West End debut in her late teens in Dreamboats and Petticoats. She landed the role of Tootsie more than a decade ago. The pair have also starred together in pantomime, including a production of Cinderella almost two years ago, where Dorrance captioned a photo: 'I couldn't ask for a better Buttons.'
Dorrance tends to keep her private life off social media, not referring to her partner by name. Last year, she posted about hatching chickens with her partner, but did not name him.
Justin Fletcher's Previous Comments
Fletcher has rarely discussed his private life, but in 2012 he confirmed he was single, citing his busy career. 'I'm not married, live alone and have been single for a while now because I've been a workaholic filming Something Special, Justin's House and Gigglebiz,' he said at the time. 'But I do want to free up some time for myself and my family. I'd love to have children, so I need to find someone who likes kids. A couple of kids would be lovely.'
Beyond CBeebies, Fletcher has lent his voice to projects such as Shaun the Sheep and The Famous Five. The Mirror has contacted his representatives for comment.
