Fans will be able to chat with virtual Ellen at American Express' www.800thecard.com. Users can choose from an array of avatar animals to match their virtual personalities as well as one of six different settings, ranging from the local coffee shop to the Eiffel Tower.

Ellen's avatar complements her new national My Life. My Card. television spot in which she reveals that her life goal is to work with animals. The spot takes a look at what life would be like for Ellen if her coworkers were replaced with various wildlife species, including a tortoise assistant who brings her coffee and a raccoon makeup artist.

“Our affluent Cardmembers are early adaptors of new technology and are very savvy when it comes to navigating the digital landscape,” said Bonnie Taffer, Vice President Alliances and Content, American Express. “With the new Ellen avatar, we want to entertain and engage consumers online to create a deeper relationship that drives breakthrough of our Ellen messages beyond TV.”

Users can converse with Ellen's online alter ego on a variety of topics including skiing, fashion and even karaoke by typing in a message on a computer or calling an “800” number to record a voice message that the animal avatar will then deliver. Fans can post their virtual conversations on their personal profile pages and blogs or email it to friends and family members.

The Ellen avatar experience will be supported with flash avatar units on numerous entertainment sites as well as a presence on Yahoo! and MSN.com.

About American Express
American Express Company is a leading global payments, network and travel company founded in 1850. For more information, visit http://www.americanexpress.com.