Actor Ryan Phillippe has sparked reports of a romance with Australian star Abbie Cornish, after they were spotted out and about in Los Angeles recently.

The couple was alleged to have had a brief fling while co-starring in the forthcoming Stop Loss while Phillippe was still married to Rendition beauty Reese Witherspoon - a claim both parties have denied.

But according to the New York Daily News, the pair have now become more than just friends.

A close pal says, "They are a real couple. (The relationship) has really grown. She's spending time with his kids (Ava, eight, and Deacon, four) - it's not like she's on the side. She's part of the family."

And Phillippe's children appear to have warmed to Cornish, after they were snapped Christmas shopping together last weekend.

A witness tells Us Weekly magazine, "Ava seemed very comfortable with Abbie. Ava picked a wreath, and Abbie put it around her head as a joke. They both were laughing."

Another source adds, "Going out together and leaking a few photos is their discreet way of letting the public know it's official. It's not like you can send out a press release about these things."

- Ryan Phillippe Photos
- Abbie Cornish Pictures
- Reese Witherspoon Gallery

(This news article provided by World Entertainment News Network)