Justin Fletcher, known for his role as CBeebies character Mr Tumble, has recently unveiled his romantic relationship with his long-standing co-star Samantha Dorrance. Despite a significant 21-year age difference (Justin being 55 and Samantha 34), the pair reportedly developed feelings for each other last year while collaborating on children’s theatre productions.
This revelation surprised fans as Fletcher has been notoriously private about his personal life, choosing to keep it separate from his television career. His busy filming schedule for shows like “Something Special,” “Justin’s House,” and “Gigglebiz” previously left him with little time for personal matters.
However, since stepping back from his full-time CBeebies commitments in January 2025, Fletcher’s attitude towards privacy seems to have shifted. Going public with their romance this week, Fletcher and Samantha have invited curiosity about Dorrance’s career and personal life outside the limelight.
Samantha, raised in Willenhall, West Midlands, has a background in dance, starting at just two years old. Her passion for musical theatre was ignited by her love for High School Musical during her youth. Additionally, she showcased her talents by reaching the semi-finals of a Blue Peter talent competition on BBC1 as a child.
Dorrance has built a diverse career in television presenting, West End theatre, music production, and advocating for children’s mental health. Notably, she won Disney Channel UK’s You’re The Star competition at 15, leading to a prominent role on Disney Channel for seven years. Her journey extended to professional theatre, where she starred in various productions, including Dreamboats and Petticoats.
Driven by her commitment to children’s mental well-being, Samantha pursued education at Yale University and established Sammy & The Sparks, a children’s pop band promoting emotional wellness through music. She also engaged in educational projects during lockdown, collaborating with Oxford University on English grammar initiatives.
Joining CBeebies in July 2015, Dorrance captured the audience’s hearts as Tootsie, Mr Tumble’s quirky companion. Since then, she has been a consistent presence in CBeebies specials and live tours, enriching the “Mr Tumble universe.”
Fletcher and Samantha first crossed paths professionally in 2015 during a stage production where Samantha played Tootsie. Their romantic connection blossomed last year while working closely on pantomimes and touring together, bonding over their shared love for musical theatre.
Despite maintaining a low profile, the couple has taken steps to intertwine their lives, with Samantha relocating to Justin’s historic farmhouse in Henley-on-Thames. Friends of the pair have expressed joy over their relationship, emphasizing Fletcher’s happiness in finding a partner.
While not a typical social media influencer, Samantha shares insights into her work on Instagram, where she has a substantial following. Her online presence complements her multifaceted career in media, production, and performance, reflecting her dedication to her craft.