Matthew Perry Out To Be More Than ‘Friends’ With Ben Stiller’s Ex

Matthew Perry is more than just “Friends” with Ben Stiller’s estranged wife, Christine Taylor, according to insiders who’ve exclusively dished to The National ENQUIRER about the sneaky lovebirds’ fledgling romance!

“Matt has known Christine almost as long as Ben has and was head over heels for her when she guest-starred on ‘Friends,’ ” a source said. “They had instant chemistry and struck up a great friendship, but the timing for something more wasn’t right.

“Ben and Christine were very serious, so Matt made sure not to cross any lines, as much as he loved working with her.” Ben and the “Brady Bunch Movie” star separated last May after 17 years of marriage and two kids, and pals said Matthew, doesn’t want to miss the opportunity to court his longtime crush!

“Now he’s got a second chance and is a lot less afraid of Ben than when he was in his 20s,” dished the source. “He loves the idea of being a stepdad, and Christine is looking for a guy with ambition, a sense of humor and, of course, almost unlimited financial resources — all of which Matt can provide.”

But “Zoolander” cutup Ben might not be thrilled about Christine’s love match — especially after Matthew’s rumored relapse last November, when porn star Maddy O’Reilly claimed he had asked her to help him “purchase some pills.”

Still, an insider insisted the former sitcom star is ready for a relationship and said: “Matt’s determined to woo Christine — no matter what Ben thinks. Ben does want Christine to be happy … but it could be awkward for him to see these two together because Ben and Matt have always got along really well.

“Ben hasn’t moved on yet,” added the insider, “but Christine could be ready to find love again with Matt.”