Shirley Bassey to perform at the Oscars, Spears gets close to Vegas gig

Dame Shirley Bassey, who recorded the theme songs for the James Bond films "Goldfinger," "Diamonds Are Forever" and "Moonraker," will make her first appearance at the Academy Awards this month. It's unclear what Bassey, whose career has spanned more than six decades, will perform at the awards show on Feb. 24 in Los Angeles. The 76-year-old British singer has recorded more than 44 albums, has sold more than 135 million records and has performed in concert halls around the world.

Caesars Entertainment has confirmed that it is in negotiations with Britney Spears to bring the pop star to Las Vegas. The hotel and casino group says they are actively engaged in discussions with Spears regarding a residency at Planet Hollywood Resort and Casino. Caesars has brought in some of the world's top-selling artists for Las Vegas residencies including Celine Dion, Elton John and Shania Twain.

Matt Damon, who was at the Berlin Film Festival to launch his film "Promised Land" had the highest praise for his friend and "Good Will Hunting" co-writer, Ben Affleck.

SOUNDBITE: Matt Damon saying (English):

"He has done remarkable work, you know, in this very short amount of time and I am really just happy for him and who knows what his chances are, you know for best picture, you know. I am obviously pulling for these guys."

Affleck and his film "Argo" have dominated the awards shows this season, and the film is nominated in the Best Picture Oscar category.