Benedict Cumberbatch - Benedict Cumberbatch Triumphs At Critics Choice Awards

Amongst the other winners at the awards ceremony was the psychological thriller Homeland, which fended off competition from Mad Men to take home the top prize. The Showtime Channel show took home the award for best TV drama series and Claire Danes won the gong for being the best dramatic actress, for her role, as a bi-polar Cia agent on the hunt for a terrorist. Another hugely popular US series, Breaking Bad, was also given a nod; its lead actor, Bryan Cranston won best actor and Giancarlo Esposito won best supporting actor for their roles in the show.

Despite frequently being lauded at the Emmy awards, the only trophy taken home by Mad Men and its cast was for Christina Hendricks. She won best supporting actress, for playing office manager Joan Holloway in the popular show. Julianne Moore was also recognised for her portrayal of Sarah Palin in the controversial TV movie Game Change.