Russell Tovey confirms split from fiance Steve Brockman just four months after couple got engaged

Russell Tovey and Steve Brockman have called off their engagement after just four months.

Russell, 36, confirmed he had split from the rugby coach after being asked by a fan on Instagram.

After posting a gym selfie to his 433,000 followers a few days ago, one fan decided to ask: ‘@RussellTovey are you still with @Steve_The_Brockman?’

Unfortunately, Russell replied saying: ‘No darling,’ which then prompted many others to send him well wishes.

The fan who had originally asked replied: ‘So sorry. I'm wishing you the best. Love you.’

It appears that Russell has deleted any photos of him with Steve from his social media profile, whereas Steve’s last post of the pair was on March 16.

It’s unsure why the couple have split, but Russell has been spending more time in the US as his career in Hollywood takes off.

Steve would often jet out to New York where Sherlock actor Russell had TV filming commitments on the TV show, Quantico.

Speaking about their engagement back in February, Russell told MailOnline: 'Completely unexpected but very very happy and looking forward to having a proper party to celebrate when back in London.’

Russell came out at the age of 18, and he believes it wasn't until he started taking on gay roles around six years ago that he his career really took off.

Speaking to the Guardian previously, he said: ‘It wasn’t a conscious decision. And it was only the other day that I realised it had been important somehow.

‘For so long, as a young actor, I had this anxiety about making sure I could get straight roles, and now I know that’s not necessary.

‘The gay roles are the best for me. Being gay has made my career,' he added.

Words by Kirsty McCormack.