Sir Michael is back on screens in a new version of Sleuth

Sir Michael, 74, won for a film career which has included roles in cult hits such as The Italian Job and Alfie.

He received the award from fellow British film star Jude Law, who acts opposite Sir Michael in a remake of his 1972 film Sleuth.

Hot Fuzz star Simon Pegg received the actor of the year award, while James Blunt won solo artist of the year.

The awards were held at the Covent Garden's Royal Opera House, were hosted by Sir Elton John.

Madonna embrace

Top Gear host Richard Hammond - who cheated death in a 280mph crash last year - won TV personality of the year, beating fellow Top Gear presenter Jeremy Clarkson, who won the award last year.

Hip hop artist and producer Kanye West won international man of the year, while Kaiser Chiefs were awarded band of the year.

Razorlight frontman Johnny Borrell won not for music but for fashion, picking up most stylish man of the year.

Madonna was on hand to give designer David Collins the inspiration award, but managed to avoid a spat with Sir Elton, the night's host.

Sir Elton had accused Madonna of lip-synching at an awards ceremony in 2004.

Introducing the US star, Sir Elton said: "This is a moment you thought you would never see."

The pair embraced onstage, but Sir Elton could not resist the last word, saying he had "written a grovelling apology and offered to join the Kabbalah".