Ugly Betty sweeps Hispanic awards

America Ferrera has played Betty Suarez since 2006

US comedy show Ugly Betty has scooped three prizes at the Alma awards, which recognise outstanding Hispanic artists in film, TV and music.

America Ferrera, who stars as Betty Suarez, won entertainer of the year at the ceremony at the Pasadena Civic Auditorium in California.

The comedy series also won awards for directing and best performance by a Latino-led ensemble cast.

Singer Shakira was honoured with the Humanitarian award.

A host of artists, including BeBe Winans, Wynonna Judd and Lucero, performed a tribute to Linda Ronstadt, who received the trailblazer award for her contributions to American music.

The Black Eyed Peas, the Cheetah Girls, Sergio Mendes and Cheech and Chong also performed at the ceremony, hosted by Desperate Housewives star Eva Longoria Parker.

Alma stands for American Latino Media Arts and also means soul in Spanish.