United Kingdom, Jan. 31 -- Rachel McAdams was initially told she was "too old" to star in Mean Girls.

The 47-year-old actress auditioned for the role of Cady Heron in the 2004 teen comedy film - but she was overlooked for the role in favour of Lindsay Lohan, and Rachel ultimately landed the role of Regina George instead.

Speaking to People, Rachel recalled being told by Mean Girls director Mark Waters: "You're too old to play Cady, but you're just right for Regina. Regina has been around the block a few times and maybe has a, I don't know if I'd call her an old soul, but she's got a few more miles on her than Cady'. So I took it as a compliment."

Rachel actually entered her audition with very low expectations.

The movie star shared: "...