Growing Up With Food at the Center of the Table
For Mary McCartney, the dinner table wasn’t just a place to eat—it was a hub of creativity and connection. Growing up, the daughter of legendary musician Paul McCartney and his first wife, Linda McCartney, spent countless hours around the table with her family. “We had a lot of wonderful memories discussing flavors and brainstorming ideas together,” Mary reveals in an exclusive interview with Closer. “We were always focused on how to make that middle part of the plate truly satisfying.”
A Vegetarian Lifestyle Rooted in Compassion
In 1975, Paul and Linda made the decision to adopt a vegetarian lifestyle, driven by their deep concern for animal welfare, personal health, and the environment. This choice became a cornerstone of family life. Linda, an accomplished cook, often took the lead in the kitchen, and her cream of tomato soup became a cherished favorite for Mary. “Whenever I needed comfort, I’d ask her to make it,” recalls Mary, now 53. She adds, “I’d always pair it with plenty of toast. There’s something so comforting about that warm, familiar taste—it made me feel safe and loved.”
Mary has put her own twist on her mother’s classic recipe in her new cooking series, Mary McCartney Serves It Up. It’s a way to honor her mother’s legacy while adding her own flair to the dishes she grew up with.
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A Life Away From the Spotlight
Despite being the daughter of one of the most famous musicians in the world, Mary grew up far from the glare of fame. Her parents worked hard to shield their children from the pressures of celebrity life. “When you’re in the middle of it, you don’t always realize how extraordinary it is,” Mary explains. “It wasn’t until later that I understood just how famous my parents were.”
Following Your Heart: Paul McCartney’s Advice to His Children
Paul encouraged his children to pursue their passions and trust their instincts. “He told us to follow our hearts and not worry too much about what others think,” Mary says. “He emphasized the importance of self-confidence and believing in yourself.”
Mary took those lessons to heart and forged her own path. Today, she’s a multifaceted creative force, known as a cookbook author, photographer, and director. “These are the things I’m truly passionate about,” she shares. Her directorial debut came in September with the release of If These Walls Could Sing, a documentary celebrating the iconic Abbey Road Studios.


