Charlize Theron has apparently fallen for Modern Family actor Eric Stonestreet.

The 37-year-old actress was introduced to Eric who plays gay dad Cameron Tucker in the hit show by mutual friends earlier this year. Although the pair were initially just pals, it is believed their feelings have intensified recently.

"Charlize and Eric get along incredibly well. They started off as friends but things are blossoming between them," a source told British newspaper The Daily Mail.

It was recently revealed that Eric, 41, had split from his long-term girlfriend Katherine Tokarz. Although the news only broke a few days ago, the pair are believed to have parted ways around nine months ago and Katherine is now engaged to writer-producer Bret Calvert.

Charlize is said to be smitten with Eric and they are taking things slowly.

"Eric is down to earth and funny and Charlize thinks the world of him. It's early days but they're very fond of each other," the source added.

Charlize adopted a boy called Jackson in March and Eric has apparently formed a close bond with the baby.

Charlize hasn't had a serious relationship since splitting from fiance Stuart Townsend in 2010.