British actor Stephen Fry has confirmed that he plans to marry his 27-year-old boyfriend.

Fry, one of Britain's best known entertainers, became famous for his roles in comedy shows Blackadder and Jeeves and Wooster and now hosts the popular BBC panel show QI.

In a post on Twitter, Fry said: "Oh. It looks as though a certain cat is out of a certain bag.

"I'm very, very happy of course but had hoped for a private wedding. Fat chance!"

The entertainer has given formal notice to wed comedian and writer Elliott Spencer at a register office in the market town of Dereham, in Norfolk, close to where he grew up.

Fry's personal assistant said no date for the wedding had yet been set.

"Stephen Fry is very happy and proud to say that he has set the wheels in motion for a wedding some time in the future but no date has been set due to a busy work schedule."

The announcement led to a flurry of support on Twitter for the actor, who has previously spoken openly about his battle with depression.

Classical pianist James Rhodes, a friend of Fry's, tweeted: "Isn't love the absolute BOMB... you guys are an ace couple".

Fry responded to the congratulatory messages, saying: "Your adorable tweets are bringing me close to sobbing", adding: "Thank you all SO much for your kind congratulations. Deeply touched xxx."

In 2010, Fry separated from his partner of 14 years, Daniel Cohen.

The broadcaster recently published the latest volume of his autobiography in which he writes about his 15-year drug addiction, admitting taking cocaine at a string of prestigious venues including the Houses of Parliament and Buckingham Palace.