Oct 24th, 2008 · A Japanese woman found herself suddenly divorced "without a word of warning." She was so angry, she murdered her husband. Except, her husband was an avatar. Her alleged crime: illegally breaking into the online account of the player who created her avatar husband. She killed his online character. Nobody died in the real world. An act of virtual vengeance that could send her to a brick and mortar prison cell.
Apr 24th, 2008 · Boasting a cast of respected rap veterans — and their dinosaur avatars — the new collection called Baby Loves Hip Hop is all about helping pre-schoolers get their pre-historic party started.
Feb 9th, 2008 · If you find recent economic news depressing, imagine what your avatar might be going through. The online fantasy game Second Life has shut down its virtual banks. The closure has had some genuine economic consequences for players, who invest real money into the fantasy lives of their alternative selves, or avatars.
Dec 15th, 2007 · NPR's Scott Simon takes a moment to note that courtesy of the online platform Second Life, an avatar of U.S. Rep. Ed Markey (D-MA) appeared at the Bali climate change meeting.
Sep 10th, 2007 · When 50 Cent's new album debuts Tuesday, he hopes to get a sales boost with the help of a virtual version of himself. The hip-hop artist is allowing fans to dress his avatar in virtual merchandise, including caps and other gear.
Nov 6th, 2006 · The Web site Second Life has built a booming virtual economy around animated characters called avatars. For a few pennies here or a dollar there, participants can accessorize their avatars with new clothing, a car, even a house.