The Programme of the Year went to Showtime's original series Game of Thrones. The popular series, based on the books of George R. R. Martin, follows seven noble families who fight for control of the mythical land of Westeros.

Peabody award-winner and Golden Globe winner Homeland, a hard-hitting CIA drama about terrorism co-starring Claire Danes and Damian Lewis, won Outstanding New Programme.

The ceremony presented 12 awards in comedy, drama, reality, miniseries and news chosen by more than 200 journalists across North America who are in the TCA.

"The past year in television offered a wide variety of standout programming. Viewers were treated to shows that were fearless, thought-provoking and original, spanning far beyond the traditional conventions," said TCA president Candace Havens in a statement.

Emmy-winner Bryan Cranston, the star of the series Breaking Bad, hosted the event at the Beverly Hilton hotel. Breaking Bad took Outstanding Achievement in a Drama.

One of the top nominees for the Emmys, Louie by comedian Louis C.K., took its first TCA prize for comedy series, dethroning Modern Family. Most of these shows will compete in the upcoming Emmy Awards in September.

Cheers was presented with the Heritage Award for its cultural and social impact on society.

A complete list of the 2012 TCA Awards recipients follows:

• Programme of the Year: Game of Thrones
• Outstanding New Programme: Homeland
• Individual Achievement in Drama: Claire Danes (Homeland) 
• Individual Achievement in Comedy: Louis C.K. (Louie)
• Outstanding Achievement in News and Information: 60 Minutes 
• Outstanding Achievement in Movies, Miniseries and Specials: Downton Abbey
• Outstanding Achievement in Drama: Breaking Bad
• Outstanding Achievement in Comedy: Louie 
• Career Achievement Award: David Letterman
• Heritage Award: Cheers

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