CBeebies Favorite Mr Tumble Enters New Relationship
Justin Fletcher, widely known for his beloved CBeebies character Mr Tumble, has reportedly found romantic happiness with his co-star Samantha Dorrance. Dorrance, who portrays Tootsie, Mr Tumble’s close friend, is 21 years Fletcher’s junior.
Romance Blossoms Amidst Pantomime and Touring
Sources indicate that the couple’s affection for one another developed while they were working together on a pantomime production and during their subsequent live tour. The connection between Fletcher, 55, and Dorrance, 34, has reportedly deepened significantly, leading to Dorrance moving into Fletcher’s £2.5 million farmhouse.
A Shared Life and a Love for Farm Animals
The pair are said to cherish a quiet domestic life, including tending to their chickens. An individual close to the couple shared, “Justin and Samantha are madly in love and couldn’t be happier.” This insider also noted their shared passion for musical theatre as a key bonding element.
Age Gap Not a Barrier
Despite the 21-year age difference, friends assert that it presents no obstacle to their relationship. The insider elaborated on Fletcher’s personal life, stating, “For Justin, Samantha is ‘The One’.” Fletcher had reportedly been single for a period before rekindling his connection with Dorrance.
The farmhouse is described as their “sanctuary,” a place where both feel most content. Friends and castmates from their tour are reportedly aware of and supportive of the relationship.
Past Reflections on Love and Family
Fletcher has previously spoken openly about his past struggles in finding a partner, humorously noting that he often receives marriage proposals from mothers who are fans of his shows. He attributed his previous romantic solitude to his demanding career.
In a 2012 interview, Fletcher stated, “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 also expressed a desire to “free up some time for myself and my family” and a wish to “have children, so I need to find someone who likes kids. A couple of kids would be lovely.”
Early Hints of a Relationship
Dorrance offered an early indication of her relationship in March, posting on social media about her and an unnamed “partner” hatching chickens. She described how fertilized eggs they had been purchasing led them to use an old incubator.

