Sophie Dahl asks new love Jamie Cullum to meet dad

Things are getting serious between new odd couple du jour, Sophie Dahl, 29, and Jamie Cullum, 27, according to pals.

And we can reveal she's even introduced Jamie to her father, actor, Julian Holloway - himself the son of the legendary Stanley Holloway - to seek his approval.

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Meet the parents: Jamie Cullum has already met new girlfriend Sophie Dahl's father

Sophie orchestrated the introduction during their trip stateside a couple of weeks ago, proving she's serious about the future of her relationship with the diminutive performer - who is eight inches shorter than her, measuring just 5 ft 4in tall.

"When Jamie Cullum went to LA to do some shows at the Hollywood bowl a couple of weeks ago Sophie decided to go with him.

"It was only when they were there that she told him the real reason - that she wanted to introduce him to her father," said a friend.

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The couple have just returned to the UK after enjoying a romantic break at the Four Seasons hotel in Los Angeles

"Both she and Jamie were very nervous when he was introduced but there was an instant liking between the two men and Jamie is now firmly one of the family.

"Everybody knows a girl's father is the most difficult nut to crack in a relationship but it seems Jamie succeeded in gaining the trust and respect of Julian.

"He said he would look out for her and that's as much as any father can ask for."

Little and large met at The Lavender Trust breast cancer charity event in London in March, where they performed two songs together.

Jamie is the first bloke Sophie's been spotted with since splitting from boyfriend of four years, actor Dan Baker in June.

And the good news is that Jamie already has his own piano stool to stand on when they kiss.

Sophie with her last boyfriend Dan Baker