Homeland, Showtime's series about a former POW and the CIA analyst who suspects him of being a terrorist, won quick kudos from Emmy voters for its first season: The series won best drama, denying Mad Men a record fifth consecutive win, and stars Damian Lewis and Claire Danes won top acting awards at Sunday's 64th annual Primetime Emmy Awards.

It was a milestone for the pay-cable network, which also claimed a writing award for the show's creators. Homeland returns Sunday for a second season.

Elsewhere, it was a thoroughly Modern night for Emmy voters, as ABC's hit Modern Family won its third straight best comedy Emmy. Eric Stonestreet and Julie Bowen repeated as best supporting actor and actress for their roles as flamboyant Cam and frazzled Claire, and show co-creator Steve Levitan picked up a trophy for directing.

Voters also spread the love to other shows and networks: Julia Louis-Dreyfus won lead comedy actress for HBO's freshman Veep. Jon Cryer was a surprise winner as best comedy actor for his role as nebbishy Alan in CBS' Charlie Sheen-less Two and a Half Men.

USA TODAY