Heche's man confirms romance

Anne Heche's new boyfriend James Tupper has confirmed the TV couple are dating, but insists their romance didn't break-up their respective marriages.

Actor Tupper, who plays Heche's love interest in US TV show Men in Trees, split from his wife Kate last year - just as the series was taking off - and Heche and her husband Coley Laffoon parted ways at the beginning of 2007.

But Tupper is playing down reports the on-set romance was responsible for the break-ups, stating: "The line was never crossed."

And, after a month of speculation, the actor has told America's People magazine the love affair is for real: "I adore her (Heche) and I'm hopeful for the future.

"There's something really comforting when you can truly connect with someone and be understood."