Tupper defends Heche

Anne Heche's new love James Tupper has defended her parenting skills, insisting she is "dedicated to all the good things".

Heche is embroiled in a bitter custody battle with her estranged husband Coley Laffoon, who filed for divorce in February after five years of marriage.

In June, he was awarded primary physical custody of their five-year-old son Homer after allegations Heche had shown "bizarre and delusional behaviour" and had "poor parenting skills".

He cited her 2001 autobiography Call Me Crazy as evidence of her mental instability.

But Heche's new boyfriend Tupper, who recently moved in with her, is adamant the actress is a great mother.

He says: "I wish people could meet her in person. She has such a sparkle and such a love for people and she works so hard. She is so dedicated to all the good things."

Earlier this month, Heche filed a request to change child custody arrangements between herself and Laffoon.