HOW KATE FELL FOR A 21-YEAR-OLD

Age is just a number...at least to Kate Beckinsale! The 43-year-old actress is dating 21-year-old comedian Matt Rife, whom she met through a mutual friend. “They hit it off immediately,” says a source. “It’s early, but they are pretty serious.” The romance comes eight months after Kate’s estranged director husband, Len Wiseman, 44, filed for divorce. “Kate went through a horrible time,” adds the source. “But she’s fallen for Matt’s quick wit and charm. He’s exactly what she needs in her life right now.” Though the age difference was initially a concern for Kate’s 18-year-old daughter, Lily, the source says Lily “just wants her mom to be happy” — and Matt is up to the task. “He makes her laugh and they have a great banter. Kate doesn’t care what anyone thinks!”