John Cleese 'romances 34-year-old'

Rex Features

John Cleese has started dating 34-year-old magazine executive Veronica Smiley, say reports.

The comedian, 68, met Smiley in New York, according to The Mirror.

Smiley then apparently joined Cleese and movie director Michael Winner on a European holiday around Switzerland and Italy.

"She's definitely a girlfriend," said Winner.

Cleese commented: "She's certainly a new friend. More than that, I simply don't want to disclose because the relationship is in its early stages."

The Fawlty Towers star is currently undergoing a divorce from his third wife Alyce Faye Eichelberger.