(Cover) - EN Showbiz - Anna Friel has reportedly told friends that Rhys Ifans is just the tonic for her broken heart.

The 34-year-old British actress split from her partner of nine years, actor David Thewlis, in December last year. Since the collapse of her long-term relationship, it has been reported that the mother-of-one has found love again with British actor Rhys Ifans, 43.

The pair who worked together last September filming new television movie Neverland, a spin-off from the Peter Pan childrens story sparked romance rumours after they were spotted outside Annas Hollywood home recently.

Friends of the actress have now revealed that the Welsh actor is helping to heal the pain of her broken heart by making her laugh.

Anna says that Rhys is so hilariously funny and easy going that hes been just the tonic for a broken heart, a friend told Closer magazine. They were good friends and he brings her straight back down to earth with a cuddle and tells her everything will be alright.

Anna - who has a five-year-old daughter, Gracie, with her ex - confirmed the romance last week, saying, Im with Rhys and Im very happy about it.

Rhys has previously dated Sienna Miller and was also linked to Rod Stewart's daughter Kimberly. (C) Cover Media