Briton Damian Lewis plays an American soldier in the drama, Homeland

British actor Damian Lewis has won an Emmy for best actor in a drama for his performance in the Homeland series.

Lewis plays an American soldier who returns home after spending years in captivity in Iraq, and who is suspected of being a double agent, reports the BBC.

And Maggie Smith has won best supporting actress in a drama series for her role in the Downton Abbey.

But the period drama was pipped to the top spot in the best drama series category, which was won by Homeland.

Downton Abbey was the most nominated British show ever, being up for 16 awards.

Homeland had further success at the award ceremony, with lead cast member Claire Danes winning best actress in a drama series.

And the show's writing team of Alex Gansa, Howard Gordon, Gideon Raff won best writing in a drama series.

Meanwhile, the US comedy Modern Family had a successful night, with three awards.

Cast members Eric Stonestreet and Julie Bowen won best supporting actor and actress, while its director Steven Levitan won an award for best director of a comedy series.

And Jon Cryer won best actor in a comedy series for his role in the show Two and a Half Men.