London, Mar 21 (IANS): Actress Olivia Wilde has bagged a role in a comedy "The Incredible Burt Wonderstone", but she was convinced she was the "lame horse" in auditions and had no chance of getting the part.

She faced stiff competition from fellow actresses Judy Greer, Jessica Biel and Sarah Silverman for the part of magician's assistant Jane, but she got selected to feature alongside Steve Carell, Jim Carrey and Steve Buscemi.

Now she can't believe her luck because she has little experience in the genre.

"It was a bit of a coup getting this role, it was intended for a comedian. My agent knew I loved comedy, but I was a long shot, the lame horse at the back," femalefirst.co.uk. quoted Wilde as saying.

However, Carell, who has also co-produced the movie, insists Wilde blew casting directors away with her performance.

"Her audition was fantastic. Subtle, but full of detail. She was my immediate first choice," said Carell.

Carell admitted Wilde's presence on the set lifted everyone's spirits.

"I was struck by the care with which she goes about her work, and the joy that she brings to the work-place. Everyone likes her. It's impossible not to. She has an unrelentingly good heart. I also happen to think she is an enormously talented actor.

"I feel lucky to have been able to work with her. She is genuinely kind, compassionate, unassuming, funny and smart. All traits that I detest in a person," he added.