Mackenzie Phillips Opens Up About Her Journey, Career, And Personal Life

Mackenzie Phillips cherishes every moment she spends in her cozy, 100-year-old Spanish bungalow nestled in Sherman Oaks, California. “This place is my sanctuary,” she shares with a warm smile, reflecting on the home that has become her ultimate safe haven. Mackenzie, who skyrocketed to fame as a teenager on the beloved series One Day at a Time, calls this space “my favorite place in the entire world.”

After enduring a tumultuous past that included two near-fatal overdoses, Mackenzie, now 64, has built a life of serenity and fulfillment. Having maintained sobriety since 2009, she's dedicated herself to a new calling: working as an addiction counselor in Los Angeles. "It's not that I've lost my passion for acting," she explains. "But because I've experienced the gift of long-term recovery, I feel an immense drive to serve others who are walking a similar path. I never imagined I'd live this long, so every single day feels like a blessing."

Who were some of your favorite musicians growing up, given your dad was John Phillips of The Mamas and the Papas?

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Mackenzie reminisces fondly about the soundtrack of her childhood. "Carole King, Led Zeppelin, and the Rolling Stones were always on heavy rotation," she says. "And let's not forget James Taylor. I practically swooned over his album cover—I would’ve kissed his face if I could!"

How Did Mackenzie Phillips Break Into the Entertainment Industry?

At just 12 years old, Mackenzie formed a little band with friends whose parents were also part of the music scene. They performed at the iconic Troubadour in West Hollywood, where fate intervened. A casting director scouting for American Graffiti saw her perform and asked if she'd be interested in auditioning for the film. "It was surreal," she recalls. "That night changed everything."

Her Memorable Appearance on The Mary Tyler Moore Show

When Mackenzie landed a guest spot on The Mary Tyler Moore Show, she was awestruck by the legendary star. "During lunch breaks, Mary would practice ballet at a barre. I'd just sit there, mesmerized by her elegance, grace, and kindness," she shares. "She embodied everything I admired in a person."

Julie, the Role That Defined a Generation

When Norman Lear cast Mackenzie as the feisty Julie on One Day at a Time in 1975, she found a character that resonated deeply with her own spirit. "Julie wasn't shy about expressing her desires or standing up for herself, even when it meant facing stern reactions," she says. "In many ways, Julie and I were alike, though she had the support of her family, whereas I was often navigating the wilds of Hollywood alone."

Valerie Bertinelli: A Lifelong Bond

Despite the years that have passed, Mackenzie remains incredibly close to Valerie Bertinelli, her TV sister from One Day at a Time. "We genuinely love each other," she says affectionately. "We text, talk, and stay connected regularly. When Valerie had her cooking show, Valerie’s Home Cooking, she invited me on every season—it was such a blast. I’m hoping to convince her to join me at one of the Hollywood Shows; it’s a delightful mix of celebrities and reunions."

Bonnie Franklin: The Mother Figure She Cherished

Mackenzie speaks with heartfelt nostalgia about Bonnie Franklin, who played her mom on the show. "I miss her so much," she admits. "Bonnie was fiercely passionate about the show’s authenticity. She'd arrive at the Monday morning table reads armed with detailed notes, ensuring every scene rang true."

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Pat Harrington: The Hilarious Presence Behind Schneider

Pat Harrington, the actor behind the lovable Schneider, left an indelible mark on Mackenzie. "Pat was one of the funniest, most outrageous people I’ve ever met," she laughs. "He'd entertain us with racy skits during rehearsals—stuff that kept us all in stitches."

Meeting legends like Walter Cronkite left an unforgettable impression on Mackenzie. "I was around 17, and Valerie and I approached him at CBS. I asked, 'Mr. Cronkite, will you be my dad?' He replied, 'I would be honored to be your father.' It was a moment I’ll never forget."

Reflections on Family and Recovery

Mackenzie’s real mother, Suzy Phillips-January, was a remarkable woman with a storied past. "She worked as Robert McNamara’s personal secretary at the Pentagon and had this glamorous aura—diamonds, pearls, cigarettes," Mackenzie describes. "Though her early years were challenging due to her alcoholism, we both found sobriety later in life, strengthening our bond. She passed away in 2016, but she left behind 18 sober years."