(Cover) - EN Showbiz - Scarlett Johansson is said to be in awe of Sean Penn.

The Hollywood star is in the process of divorcing Ryan Reynolds, who she split from last year. She has been linked to several people since her marriage breakdown, including Sean. Although her representative has denied they are together romantically, the pair have been seen together on several occasions during a lunch date Scarlett, 26, was even seen with her foot resting provocatively on 50-year-old Seans lap.

The pair are also thought to have holidayed together in Mexico, and a pal of Seans has explained why they are so drawn to each other.

You can tell that Scarlett is in total awe of Sean and he respects the fact that she is as sharp and funny as she is beautiful and sexy. Not a bad combination, the insider told the Chicago Sun-Times.

An associate of Scarletts has also spoken to the publication, explaining the two get on very well together. While many have been surprised by the alleged romance due to the age gap, Scarlett and Sean apparently have bonded over their similar interests.

There may be a generational gulf there, but trust me, Scarlett and Sean are more alike than youd think, the source said. Both are very cerebral and intense, but more important, the two of them are all about the work. They both are tough, totally career-focused, no-nonsense people. (C) Cover Media