Best-selling thriller writer Tom Clancy is close to signing a $45m (�28.1m) deal for the publication of his next two novels, his biggest payday so far.

One book will feature Clancy's Jack Ryan character, who also appeared in Patriot Games and Clear and Present Danger.

The other novel is believed to be a modern Jack The Ripper story.

The film rights to the unpublished novels are yet to be acquired. Actor Ben Affleck is about to star as Ryan in an adaptation of Sum Of All Fears.

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Doors re-unite for TV special

The three surviving members of iconic 1960s band the Doors have teamed up with several guest vocalists to record their classic tunes for a TV special.

Keyboardist Ray Manzarek, guitarist Robby Krieger and drummer John Densmore teamed up with Scott Weiland, Ian Astbury and Scott Stapp.

The results will be aired on VH-1 and released on an album, Stoned Immaculate, in late November.

The Doors also plan live dates in the US and Europe.

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Elle Style Award for Posh Spice

Posh Spice Victoria Beckham made her first public appearance since being struck with viral meningitis to receive a top prize at the Elle Style Awards.

Beckham took the Wella Most Stylish Look Award at the awards show on Tuesday night.

Other award recipients included actress Joely Richardson, presenter Davina McCall, TV chef Jamie Oliver and designer John Galliano.

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WWF star Rock is Scorpion King

Popular wrestler The Rock is to receive $5.5m (�3.4m) for the title role in The Scorpion King, according to industry newspaper Variety.

The Rock, whose real name is Dwayne Johnson, receives one of the highest sums paid an actor for a first starring role.

The film, a spinoff from The Mummy 2, which is currently shooting, reveals the origins of the Scorpion King character.