The phrase suggests a struggle or competition to obtain something, not a peaceful transfer. She had to wrest the lead role from her talented competitor.
Pro Tip 2/3
Not Literal
'Wrest from' doesn't always mean physically taking; it can be used metaphorically. He wrested the truth from the rumors.
Pro Tip 3/3
Forceful Action
Involves a forceful action, often suggesting desperation or determination. The activist wrested attention from the media for the cause.