RICKY GERVAIS - GERVAIS AND MIRREN WIN EMMYS

GERVAIS AND MIRREN WIN EMMYS

Ricky Gervais and Dame Helen Mirren have been honoured at American television's biggest awards bash, the Emmys.

Office star Gervais won the outstanding lead actor in a comedy series prize for his portrayal of Andy Millman in Extras, while Oscar winner Dame Helen was awarded in the best mini-series category.

The 62-year-old star nabbed the award for outstanding actress in a mini-series or movie, for her portrayal of Jane Tennison in Prime Suspect: The Final Act.

But mob drama The Sopranos was the top winner on the night, receiving three awards in its final season – including the prize for outstanding drama series.

Individual directors and writers received the other two prizes given to the series, which was deemed the best showcase of directing and writing in drama this year.

Top acting honours for drama went to other shows though, as Sally Field, who plays Nora Walker in Brothers and Sisters, won the best female actor gong and James Spader from Boston Legal picked up the best actor prize.

America Ferrara was named best comedy actress for her portrayal of fashion-challenged Betty in Ugly Betty.