Sean Penn's third annual Help Haiti Home benefit gala is a great cause and highlights the actor's humanitarian efforts.

But the attention was somewhat diverted away from the charity organisation.

The 53 year-old was seen getting very close with fellow Hollywood star, and personal friend, Charlize Theron at the event held in Beverly Hills on Saturday (Jan 11th).

The 'Prometheus' actress showed up alone to support Penn's cause, looking stunning in a little black dress, but was later spotted sitting next to the host of the evening.

The pair were seen looking at one another with great affection, caressing each other and giggling like a young couple, they were certainly enjoying each other's company.

It wasn't before long that they engaged in a public display of affection, the 'Gangster Squad' actor allegedly kissed her neck several times before they lovingly kissed each other on the lips, E!News reports.

Saturday's charity gala marked the couple's first official public appearance.

Speculation of their relationship began when the Hollywood superstars were photographed enjoying a vacation together in Hawaii over the holiday break, before arriving back to Los Angeles together on New Year's Day.

Theron was a guest at Penn's Hawaii home and the 38 year-old actress made the trip without her two year-old son Jackson, hoping for some alone time with each other.

They were caught leaving Charlize's home at around 9.45am on the following Thursday (Jan 2nd) but left in separates vehicles.

It now seems the rumors have been confirmed and 2014's newest power couple has arrived.

See all our photos from Sean Penn's Help Haiti Home benefit gala here 

Charlize Theron
Theron arriving at the event in Los Angeles on Saturday (Jan 11th)