Sean Bean won Best Actor at the International Emmy Awards on Monday night.

Sean played cross-dressing teacher Simon in the second series of the drama which was created by acclaimed TV writer Jimmy McGovern.

Comedian Chris O'Dowd also had reason to celebrate as his Sky 1 HD sitcom 'Moone Boy' - which follows a 12-year-old boy's adventures with his imaginary friend - earned the Best Comedy Series prize.

Elsewhere, blonde beauty Sheridan Smith was less successful at the ceremony, losing out on a Best Actress prize for her role in ITV period drama 'Mrs. Biggs'.

The 32-year-old star was bested by Brazilian actress Fernanda Montenegro, who starred in 'Sweet Mother'.

TV producer-turned-Hollywood director J.J. Abrams was honoured by the voting committee with the International Emmy Founders Award for his services to TV.

The 'Star Trek Into Darkness' helmer is behind hit shows such as smash hit drama 'Lost', 'Alias' and 'Fringe'.

J.J. was presented his award by 'Star Trek' actor Zachary Quinto and joked that his TV ex ecutive father, Gerald W. Abrams, must have pressured International Emmy president Bruce Paisner - a long time pal of his dad - into giving him the nod.

The awards ceremony, hosted by British comic John Oliver, took place in New York.




2013 International Emmy Awards - selected winners:




Best Drama Series: 'The Returned' (France)

Best Comedy Series: 'Moone Boy' (Britain)

Best Actor: Sean Bean, 'Accused' (Britain)

Best Actress: Fernanda Montenegro, 'Sweet Mother' (Brazil)