'Dark Knight' soars at People's Choice Awards

Noting that difference, Katherine Heigl, who accepted the trophy for best comedy movie for her "27 Dresses," told reporters backstage that she wore a pants suit because "it was after the holidays, so I didn't want to wear anything strapless or anything I had to suck in my stomach for."

Among film honors, "Dark Knight," which was 2008's top film at box offices with global ticket sales of nearly $1 billion, also proved to be the No. 1 movie of the night. Along with best film and on-screen match-up, it hauled in awards for favorite action movie, superhero for Bale as Batman, and for its cast.

"The Secret Life of Bees" was the winner of best film drama and favorite independent film, and animated "Wall-E" was the No. 1 family film for People's Choice voters.

In the TV arena, medical show "House" was named favorite TV drama, and "Two and a Half Men" was best TV comedy.

"The Mentalist" was top new TV drama while "Gary Unmarried" was the No. 1 new TV comedy.

"House" star Hugh Laurie took home the trophy for favorite male TV star, and Christina Applegate took the honor of top female TV star for "Samantha Who?"

Applegate, who revealed earlier this year that she underwent surgery for breast cancer, said the award meant a lot to her after a difficult year."

"I feel great. I really do," she told reporters backstage. "Each week gets easier and each week gets better."

Ellen DeGeneres was named best TV talk show host and "Dancing With the Stars" was the people's pick for No. 1 competition or reality TV show.

Along with Underwood, top winners in music included Kid Rock for favorite rock song "All Summer Long," Rascal Flatts for favorite group, Chris Brown best male singer and Katy Perry with best pop tune "I Kissed a Girl." A complete list of winners can be found at www.pcavote.com. (Reporting by Bob Tourtellotte; Editing by Eric Walsh)