TV critics applaud NBC, 'Sopranos'

LOS ANGELES, July 22 (UPI) -- NBC and HBO's "The Sopranos" were the big winners at the Television Critics Awards in California, with NBC taking awards in four categories.

The network's "Heroes" was given top honors at Saturday's awards ceremony, winning program of the year, Variety reported.

"The Office" won for outstanding achievement in comedy and the football drama "Friday Night Lights" was named outstanding new program.

Actor Alec Baldwin won an individual comedy award for his performance on NBC's "30 Rock."

HBO's mobster drama "The Sopranos" was the night's other big winner, taking the award for outstanding achievement in drama and the heritage award, which recognizes shows that have made a lasting impact on pop culture.

The Discovery Channel's "Planet Earth" won for outstanding movie, miniseries or special and for outstanding news and information program.

The outstanding individual achievement in drama went to Michael C. Hall of Showtime's "Dexter," and ABC Family's "Kyle XY" was honored for outstanding children's programming.