Kate Winslet kicked off the 2016 Golden Globe Awards by winning the Best Supporting Actress in a Motion Picture prize for her role in Steve Jobs.

The British beauty fought off competition from Jane Fonda (Youth), Jennifer Jason Leigh (The Hateful Eight), Helen Mirren (Trumbo), and Alicia Vikander (Ex Machina) to earn her third Golden Globe on Sunday (10Jan16).

"Is this really happening?" a stunned Winslet asked as she stepped onstage to accept her accolade. "I just want to say, what an incredible year for women in film... These categories are so crowded and crammed with incredible skill and integrity and I feel prouder than ever this year to be included, I really, truly do."

She then went on to heap praise on her co-star Michael Fassbender, who portrayed late Apple genius Steve Jobs.

"Michael Fassbender, you are a legend," she said. "I would watch you every day. I don't know, I still don't know how you did it. We were all so impressed by you and overwhelmed by your talent; you set the bar so high for everybody. Thank you for being such an incredible colleague and friend."

Winslet also had kind words to say about director Danny Boyle, who was not in attendance, and screenwriter Aaron Sorkin, who she described as "crazy".

"I don't know why you would write that much dialogue for people to say!" the actress laughed. "It's really quite hard and I would happily end my life knowing that I've spoken your words."

Wrapping up her speech, she turned her attention to her husband Ned Rocknroll: "My wonderful husband Ned, my everything, you make it all possible. Thanks for always being up for the adventure. Thank you so much!"

Meanwhile, Maura Tierney was another early winner, taking home the title of Best Performance by an Actress in a Supporting Role in a Series, Limited Series or Motion Picture Made for Television for The Affair.

The Golden Globe Awards, presented by comedian Ricky Gervais, is taking place at the Beverly Hilton Hotel in Los Angeles.