Mackenzie Phillips cherishes the moments she spends at her 100-year-old Spanish bungalow in Sherman Oaks, California. "This place is my sanctuary," says the actress, who became a household name as a teenager on the hit show One Day at a Time. "It’s truly my favorite spot in the entire world." Mackenzie, now 64, has come a long way since her tumultuous years and two near-fatal overdoses. Having been sober since 2009, she has built a peaceful life filled with purpose, working as an addiction counselor in Los Angeles.
Her journey hasn’t been easy, but Mackenzie has embraced every step of it. "It’s not that I’ve stopped loving acting," she explains. "But finding long-term recovery has ignited a passion in me to serve others like me. I never imagined I’d live this long, so each day feels like a gift. It’s a chance to make a difference."
Growing Up in Music and Fame
Mackenzie grew up surrounded by music legends, thanks to her father, John Phillips of The Mamas and the Papas. When asked about her favorite musicians growing up, she lights up. "Carole King, Led Zeppelin, the Rolling Stones—these were the sounds of my childhood," she recalls. "And James Taylor? Oh, I was obsessed. I’d stare at his album cover and dream about meeting him!"
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Breaking Into Acting
Mackenzie’s acting career began early. At just 12 years old, she formed a band with other kids whose parents were in the music industry. They performed at the famous Troubadour club in West Hollywood, where she caught the eye of a casting director for American Graffiti. "It was surreal," she says. "One moment I’m jamming with friends, and the next, I’m offered a role in a movie that would change my life."
Memorable Moments on The Mary Tyler Moore Show
Her guest appearance on The Mary Tyler Moore Show left a lasting impression. "During lunch breaks, Mary would practice ballet at a bar," Mackenzie remembers fondly. "I’d sit there, mesmerized by her elegance and grace. She was the epitome of kindness and professionalism. Watching her was inspiring."
Julie on One Day at a Time
Norman Lear cast Mackenzie as the rebellious Julie on One Day at a Time in 1975. "Julie was unapologetically herself," Mackenzie explains. "She knew what she wanted and wasn’t afraid to go after it. In many ways, Julie and I were alike, though she had the support of her family, something I didn’t always have."
Friendship with Valerie Bertinelli
Mackenzie and Valerie Bertinelli, who played her TV sister, remain close friends. "We’ve shared so much over the years," Mackenzie says. "Valerie’s been there for me through thick and thin. We text and talk often. She even invited me on her cooking show, Valerie’s Home Cooking, which was a blast. I’m hoping to convince her to join me at one of the Hollywood Shows—it’s a great mix of celebrities and reunions."
Working with Bonnie Franklin and Pat Harrington
Bonnie Franklin, who played Mackenzie’s TV mom, left a lasting impact. "I miss her dearly," Mackenzie admits. "She was passionate about the show and always fought to keep it authentic. Her notes during table reads were legendary." Pat Harrington, who played Schneider, was another memorable presence. "Pat was hilarious and full of life. His racy skits in rehearsal were unforgettable."
Meeting Legends and Family Bonds
Among the legends Mackenzie met was Walter Cronkite. "I was around 17 when I approached him and asked if he’d be my dad," she recalls with a laugh. "He said yes, and it meant the world to me." Mackenzie also reflects on her relationship with her real mom, Suzy Phillips-January. "She was brilliant and funny, but her alcoholism made the early years tough," Mackenzie says. "Thankfully, we both got sober, and our bond grew stronger. She passed away in 2016, but I’ll always cherish the time we had."
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