Latin actress PENELOPE CRUZ has further fuelled reports of a romance between herself and MATT DAMON - by reducing her pal to silence with a glowing report on his character.

The sexy star, who stars opposite Damon in new movie ALL THE PRETTY HORSES, is rumoured to be enjoying romantic liasons with the Oscar winner. And talking on OPRAH WINFREY's talk show, which aired in America yesterday (22NOV00), Cruz admits, "Matt's a very special man, he's funny and he's one of the most generous people I've met in my life. He has no defects."

Visably blushing Damon was unable to find words, finally settling on, "That's the most amazing thing to say." (SVD/WNV/CPT)

Source: WENN