The Bear's Jeremy Allen White and Molly Gordon Had 'Intense Chemistry' Before Getting Romantic a 'Few Weeks Ago' (Source)

The romantic connection between Jeremy Allen White and Molly Gordon has been building up for some time.

On Wednesday, Sept. 25, the costars were seen kissing in Los Angeles in photos obtained by PEOPLE. A source now says that White, 33, and Gordon, 28, have only recently begun exploring their chemistry.

"There were set rumors early on that they had intense chemistry even when not filming," the source tells PEOPLE of The Bear costars, whose characters on the hit show are also love interests. "They didn't start hanging out romantically until a few weeks ago though."

White "really seems into Molly," the source says.

"She spends time at his house. They go on lunch dates and seem to have a great time. They're affectionate, often in deep conversations and seem curious to get to know each other better."

Despite living in New York City, Gordon has been "spending a lot of time in L.A.," which is where White lives when he's "not working," as his two kids Ezer and Dolores are based there.

The source also notes that White is "very involved with his kids," who he shares with his ex-wife Addison Timlin, and "often takes them out for activities."

Reps for White and Gordon did not immediately respond to PEOPLE's request for comment.

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On The Bear, Gordon stars as Claire, the childhood sweetheart of Chef Carmy (White) who he decides to rekindle things with upon her arrival in season 2. They explored their romantic relationship again during the season, but it was not without its hiccups, as season 2 ended with an emotional breakup.

After venting about his relationship worries while trapped in the walk-in freezer — and blaming Claire for the restaurant's failings — Carmy unfortunately realizes Claire has been standing outside and heard his entire rant. She walked away from him in the season finale, but appeared several times during season 3 in flashbacks.

Prior to White and Gordon's PDA moment this week, he had most recently been linked to singer Rosalía.

Speculation first arose of a romance between White and the Spanish singer in October 2023, and in December, they were seen holding hands in L.A. They were photographed during several outings in January and early 2024, and were most recently seen together at an event for The Bear in L.A. on July 14.

However, neither the actor nor the "Beso" singer, 32, ever spoke publicly about the nature of their relationship.

On the day the photos of White and Gordon were taken, Rosalía was in Paris celebrating her birthday at a star-studded bash attended by Kylie and Kendall Jenner, Gigi Hadid and others.

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Seasons 1-3 of The Bear can be streamed on Hulu.