HEATH LEDGER - THE PEOPLE'S FAVORITE THE DARK KNIGHT

THE PEOPLE'S FAVORITE THE DARK KNIGHT

The Dark Knight may have been passed over by many critics and guild groups for awards recognition -- except in the case of the late Heath Ledger in the supporting-actor category -- but the movie dominated the People's Choice Awards Wednesday night. The movie picked up five awards -- in every category for which it was nominated -- including favorite cast, superhero, action movie and on-screen match-up for Christian Bale's Batman and Ledger's Joker. Accepting the latter award, Bale said, "On behalf of all of the cast from the movie, thank you very much to the fans," then added "Here's to Heath." Reese Witherspoon accepted the award for favorite female movie star, while Kate Hudson was named best leading lady. Will Smith took awards for best male movie star and top male action star. The ceremonies were carried by CBS, which attracted 10.21 million viewers in the 9 00 p.m. hour, but fell to 8.43 million in the 10 00 p.m. hour. Ratings were up more than 60 percent from last year's People's Choice Awards.

08/01/2009