Reese Witherspoon heeds Avon call to be spokeswoman

LOS ANGELES (Reuters Life!) - Oscar-winning actress Reese Witherspoon heeded Avon's call on Wednesday to become the giant direct-sale cosmetics company's first ever "Global Ambassador."

Her duties include acting as a spokeswoman for Avon's cosmetics and its army of sales representatives whose slogan is "Avon Calling." She will also be the honorary chairwoman of the Avon Foundation that focuses on such issues as breast cancer and domestic abuse.

"As a woman and a mother I care deeply about the well being of other women and children throughout the world and through the years, I have always looked for opportunities to make a difference," said Witherspoon, who has two children by estranged husband, actor Ryan Phillippe.

In a brief interview with Reuters after her news conference, she said she got involved because Avon has a real interest in helping women across the world.

"I tried to do the best with balancing work and family. My children are the biggest priority in my life," said the actress who filed for divorce from Phillippe last November after seven years of marriage.

Witherspoon, who won the 2005 Oscar for best actress for her portrayal of June Carter Cash in "Walk the line," signed a multi-year agreement, but her compensation was not disclosed.

In addition to her other duties, Witherspoon will also be involved in product development initiatives, and appear globally in Avon advertising, web sites and in the company's brochures.