Rachel McAdams recalls being told she was 'too old' for Mean Girls at 25

McAdams 'took it as a compliment' seeing it as validation that she had the maturity to carry the central character

Rachel McAdams, the actress who became a cultural icon as Regina George in Mean Girls, recently opened up about an early career moment that might surprise fans: she was once told she was “too old” to play the lead in the hit teen comedy — even though she was just 25 at the time.

In a candid interview reflecting on the enduring legacy of Mean Girls, McAdams said that hearing she was too old for the role initially felt unexpected but ultimately boosted her confidence. “Someone said I was too old to play the lead because I was 25,” she recalled. Instead of taking it as a setback, McAdams said she “took it as a compliment,” seeing it as validation that she had the maturity and presence to carry the film’s central character.

Mean Girls, released in 2004 and written by Tina Fey, has become one of the most quoted and beloved comedies of the 21st century, with McAdams’ Regina George standing out as one of its most memorable characters. The film’s sharp humor, quotable dialogue and insightful take on high school hierarchy have made it a cultural touchstone, and McAdams’ performance remains central to its lasting popularity.

Looking back, McAdams said she didn’t let early doubts define her path. “I just really wanted to do it,” she said of pursuing the role, explaining that her passion for the project outweighed any concerns about age or suitability. Her commitment paid off, with her portrayal of Regina becoming a defining moment in her career.

McAdams’ comments have resonated with fans who admire not just her performance, but her perspective on aging and casting in Hollywood. Many viewers praised her choice to embrace the remark as a positive, noting that it highlights how perceptions of age in the film industry have shifted — and how actors navigate those perceptions with confidence and humor.

As Mean Girls continues to enjoy new life through revivals, spin‑offs and fan celebrations, McAdams’ reflection offers an inside look at the challenges and affirmations that shaped one of the most iconic roles in modern comedy.